MEDIA RELEASE

For Immediate Release

Monday November 27

Big Brain on show in Bathurst ahead of International Day of People with a Disability

The Big Brain has arrived in Bathurst for the every first time to mark the 26^th International Day of People with a Disability in a BIG way.

Under the guidance of Cowra sculptor Ken Hutchinson, the Big Brain was created by six members of the Central West Brain Injury Action Group in a series of Arts OutWest’s Celebrate Ability Installation Workshops over four weeks earlier in the year.

Just back from starring in Australia’s only regional disability arts festival – Awakenings in Horsham Victoria (October 13-22), this eye-catching installation measuring 900mm x 600mm x 600mm will be on public display in the foyer of the Bathurst Regional Council building until Friday December 1, ahead of International Day of People with a Disability on Sunday December 3.

To celebrate International Day of People with a Disability Arts OutWest have joined forces with Disability, Information and Advocacy Service (DIAS), Mitchell Conservatorium, Bathurst and District Museum and other local disability service providers to present a free, fun community event on Sunday December 3, 10am-4pm.

The Big Brain will be on show at the Mitchell Conservatorium in Russell Street, along side other striking artworks, as apart of CreateAbility, an exhibition of artworks by Central NSW artists living with a disability.

A special exhibition Disability: Then and Now is also now open to the public at the Bathurst and District Museum, featuring interactive displays of contemporary and historical artefacts. On Sunday entry to the museum will be free.

Community members will also be able to join others painting market umbrellas under the guidance of local indigenous artist Nyree Reynolds on the front lawns of the Bathurst Courthouse.

Pianist Garry Cooley will be performing live in Studio A at 12noon and 2pm, while guitarist Adrian Hadson will perform on the courthouse lawn from 3pm.

A barbeque and refreshments will be available from 10am and there will be an official opening and welcome at 11.30am.

This event has been made possible with support from the Australian Government’s Regional Arts Fund, Accessible Arts NSW in partnership with Department of Ageing, Disability and Homecare and Country Energy.

For more information contact Arts OutWest’s communications officer Natalie Kent on 6338 4657 or email artsoutwest@csu.edu.au.