Mai-Wel artists take centre stage at Matiland City Library

A new exhibition featuring artworks from seven Mai-Wel artists now sits pride of place on the facade of Maitland City Library, as part of Maitland Council’s newest Walls That Talk activation.  

Reflecting the lived experiences of the artists, the seven visually striking wearable art pieces are the latest in a long line of engaging Walls That Talk activations that celebrate Maitland’s community and its people.  

‘We're excited to partner with The Mai-Wel Group for this edition of Walls that Talk – an organisation that has been a vital part of the Maitland community since 1960,’ says Maitland City Council Senior Place Activation Officer Kara Stonestreet.  

‘Each colourful headpiece has something to share about its artist, their journey, their personality and how those things can be expressed through art. 

‘We’re proud to see a program like Walls That Talk, which sits in the heart of town, continue to provide a meaningful opportunity for the community to come together and feel connected or inspired by creative expression.’ 

Over eight weeks, the participating artists collaborated with Mai-Wel mentors in a series of workshops focused on creating unique sculptural headpieces, exploring the idea of becoming their own muses.  

Using paper, paint and various materials, the artists expressed their creativity through colour and symbolism, drawing inspiration from other paper artists and wearable art sculptors. 

‘I always have fun making art; I’m really excited to represent my art and be on the Library,’ says Briety, one of the featured artists from Mai-Wel. 

Sophia O’Connor, an artist mentor at Mai-Wel says, ‘a community needs to be diverse and inclusive, showcasing all talents, abilities and strengths. 

‘Mai-Wel's vision is to ‘empower people and change lives’, and Maitland City Council has provided a platform for our participants and budding artists to highlight their incredible talents and empower them to achieve, be courageous and be full of possible.’ 

The community can now visit the exhibition at Maitland City Library, with the headpieces on display at East Maitland Library for the month of October. For more information about the exhibition and the artists, visit mait.city/WallsthatTalk.