Australian Multicultural Community Services (AMCS) is soon to be hosting its annual public art competition, Art Against Ageism.
Marketing manager Katie Levine said the non-for-profit organisation aims to challenge negative stereotypes of ageing and promote inclusivity through an exhibition celebrating the beauty and diverse capabilities of older people.
“In 2021 we established this competition, very much as a community minded competition to really bring awareness to what ageism is,” she said.
“We came up with this idea to put a call out to people within the community of all artistic levels, to provide their perspective of ageism and try to challenge those negative stereotypes of ageing a little bit better.
“This was due to the fact a lot of our clients were facing ageism and there was some research that was coming out saying how pervasive it was within Australia at the time.
The competition is open to all types of mediums and levels, Katie said is it more about the message.
“In past years we have seen paintings, drawings, photography pieces, graphic design, and AI-generated imagery, all are encouraged to apply through our website.
“We really want something to make a statement visually sort on first impressions.”
The first prize winner will be rewarded with $1000, and the second prize winner will receive $500.
The 40-year-old organisation is based in Maidstone which Katie said has a range of programs to support their community.
“We have volunteering programmes and programmes to support carers care roles, employment services and adult education services.
“We are all about inclusivity and diversity, so this exhibition is really one of those ways similar to music, where there is no language barrier and people can experience it in a way that makes sense for them.”
The submission deadline is September 10.
Jennifer Pittorino
