RAYMOND Terrace Library has become a hive of activity, as Life Unlimited Support Services (LUSS) presents a unique and heartwarming art exhibition created by participants in their Creative Hands craft program and members of the wider LUSS community.
The exhibition, themed around “bees”, is the vibrant brainchild of Cheryl Todd, affectionately known as the “Crafty Queen”.
Cheryl, an art teacher and LUSS’s day support coordinator for art, has brought the display to life through her thirst for creativity, learning, and inclusion.
The exhibition explores the fascinating world of bees, focusing on their role as nature’s architects, in pollination, the structure of their hives, the environmental sting posed by the Varroa mite, and how these tiny creatures are essential to the food we eat and the ecosystems we rely on.
“Our hive day support program was all about creativity and learning,” said Cheryl.
“Bees were a hot topic at the time, especially with all the news about the Varroa mite, and we wanted to understand more about their importance and how we can help protect them.
“It really got us talking about our food, our environment, and what sustainability looks like in our community.”
Created by ten participants, the exhibition features stunning handcrafted pieces, many made from recycled materials and includes intricate paper mosaics to clay bee sculptures and whimsical beehives.
The artworks reflect the participants’ creativity, resilience, and deepening awareness of the natural world.
“Our artists were so excited to have their work displayed publicly,” said Megan Power, CEO of LUSS.
“It gave them a real sense of pride and purpose.
“They were driven to finish their pieces, and many were thrilled to think their work would be shared with the broader community.”
Beyond the buzz of artistic achievement, the benefits of the program run deep.
Creative programs like this one have been shown to boost mental health, support social connection, improve cognitive function, and foster independence.
For many participants, it’s also about belonging.
“Art and craft have become a way for our participants to express themselves, build confidence, and feel part of something bigger,” Megan explained.
“This exhibition is a celebration of their voices, their talents, and their community.”
Cheryl plays a pivotal role in nurturing the nectar of creativity in the LUSS colony, where her boundless enthusiasm and innovative ideas contribute to make a safe, inclusive environment where people with disabilities can explore all facets of creative expression from painting and sculpture to performance and storytelling.
“Cheryl brings imagination to life,” one participant said.
“Whether it’s an underwater world or a hoard of bees, Cheryl turns a simple idea into something magical.
“She inspires all of us.”
Hosting the exhibition at Raymond Terrace Library was a natural choice, offering a public and welcoming space for the community to engage with the artworks and the stories behind them.
“We wanted to celebrate the work and give our artists the chance to be seen,” said Cheryl.
“This isn’t just an art display, it’s about building inclusion, sharing knowledge, and connecting with our local community.”
The exhibition runs throughout September, and visitors are encouraged to stop by, learn about bees, and enjoy the creative expressions of some truly remarkable artists.
By Jacie WHITFIELD
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