Kimberley Oakley, a passionate artist with a disability from Puckapunyal, has achieved something remarkable.
Her first-ever solo exhibition at Schoolhouse Studios Gallery in Coburg, which ran from April 4 to 10, sold out completely.
The 101 colourful dragons displayed were all sold on the opening day — a rare feat and a first for the emerging artist.
“I was very excited by the exhibition but also very nervous”, Ms Oakley said.
“I get joy knowing people enjoy my artwork and have pieces of my work at home”.
“I wouldn’t have been able to do this without the support of my family, friends and Mandy Gloede at Goulburn Options Art.
“They inspire me to create, and their support means a lot”.
Creating has always been important to Ms Oakley, and she’s been immersed in making art since she was four. Her journey took a pivotal turn at seven when Bindy Moore, an artist and family friend, began mentoring her, helping her refine her style.
Fast-forward a few years, and she continues her artistic development through Goulburn Options Art in Shepparton, facilitated by her NDIS program and guided by GO ART creative arts co-ordinator, Ms Gloede.
“I love Shepparton! Mandy and I have a lot of fun!” Ms Oakley said.
Ms Oakley harnesses her unique perspective through her art. She explores and interprets the world around her, transforming these experiences into vivid pieces. They bring her inner world to life with colourful markers, pairing vibrant dragons and evocative poetry. These creations symbolise her experiences with disability and neurodivergence.
Her work not only reflects her personal vision but also invites viewers to experience the world through her eyes, offering a profound insight into her emotions.
“Creating is a peaceful activity that gives you a sense of tranquillity,” Ms Oakley said with a smile.
“I really love it!”
Although she admires artists like Van Gogh and Da Vinci, her inspiration comes from her mother, Jenny, a wildlife volunteer for over 30 years.
The artist enjoys assisting her mother in caring for the injured animals that come into her care.
Ms Oakley is passionate about protecting animals and looking after them.
“I want to go further and further so I can do more to help save native and endangered animals,” she said.
Described as a prolific artist by her mother, Jenny, art is vital to Kimberley. She dedicates 10 to 15 hours a week to her practice.
Ms Oakley is represented by LOOM, a Preston-based not-for-profit and social enterprise dedicated to representing d/Deaf and disabled artists and promoting their work in the arts industry.
With assistance from Hannah Reekie, co-executive director of LOOM, Ms Oakley has produced a colouring book that combines her poetry and illustrations, coasters and prints.
An ambitious artist with many future aspirations, Ms Oakley is particularly passionate about using her art to raise awareness for wildlife conservation, a cause close to her heart.
She and fellow artists from GO Art were recently featured at the Tastes of the Goulburn event, which was held in Seymour on April 27.
Ms Oakley’s vibrant artwork is available for purchase through LOOM’s website.