Creativity and kindness take centre stage in community art exhibition

In its fourth year, the exhibition brings together work from 11 local groups — including students, carers, migrants and community hub members.

Each piece was created through hands-on workshops held in schools and neighbourhood spaces, with guidance from artists Melinda Solomon, Lisa Lynch-Johnston and Joan Erikson.

“The theme ‘Connected through Creativity and Kindness’ grew from our reflections on the wonderful connections formed between people who participate in and have contributed to our annual community art exhibition,” Lighthouse manager of early years and primary team Sarah Pain said.

“This year’s exhibition also aligns with our ‘Be Kind’ campaign — a heartfelt tribute to our friend and colleague Bella.

“It reminds us that even the smallest act of kindness can have a big impact.”

The Lighthouse Project co-ordinated the exhibition from start to finish — engaging artists, supporting participating groups, supplying materials and securing the venue ahead of the Shepparton Festival launch.

From delicate brushwork to bright yarn collages, the artworks reflect themes of community, compassion and identity — each grounded in a unique story or perspective.

“While the artworks themselves are beautiful, it’s the interactions — the conversations, teamwork and shared moments that truly highlight the exhibition’s meaning,” Sarah said.

“Each piece is a testament to how creativity can spark friendships and how kindness emerges when people come together to share stories and experiences.”

All artworks were developed through artist-led workshops, often delivered in schools or community hubs, where participants could explore ideas, materials and shared themes in a safe and inclusive space.

Gowrie St Primary School and Mooroopna Park Primary School both worked with Indigenous artist Melinda Solomon to explore themes of nature, wildlife and connection using traditional symbols and techniques.

Created during Cultural Diversity Week, ‘The Language of Kindness’ is a colourful collaboration between St George’s Rd Primary School and the Shepparton English Language Centre. Students from 16 cultural backgrounds and across generations shared stories in many languages, reflecting on what kindness meant in their community.

“At Lighthouse, we’re deeply committed to creating opportunities for our community to share their stories, especially the voices of children and young people through creativity,” Sarah said.

“The community hubs played a vital role by offering safe, inclusive spaces where people could come together to paint, talk and connect.

“Each of their artworks reflects the unique identity of their hub and the contributions of the communities they support.”

Many of the artists have visited the café with family and friends, proudly showing off their contributions as part of the larger exhibition. It’s all taking place in the welcoming space of Milestone Café, generously hosted by Kris and Deano — long-time friends of the project whose support helped make the exhibition possible.

“The community response has been incredibly positive and heartwarming,” Sarah said.

“People have reached out with thoughtful comments about specific pieces, and the team at Milestone Café has shared lovely stories about customers who’ve admired the vibrant, diverse artworks.

“We hope visitors leave with a sense of joy, community and the powerful reminder that kindness and creativity can bring people together in beautiful and unexpected ways.”

To learn more about the participating artists and groups, visit the Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project website.

Connected through Creativity and Kindness is on display at Milestone Café and Bistro, 7723 Goulburn Valley Hwy, Kialla, until May 30. Entry is free.