New Painting: Voice For Homelessness

New Narrative Work

VOICE FOR HOMELESSNESS

Whenever there is opportunity to create art with a defined narrative, I’m excited for the challenge and ready to explore best subject to explore. In my new painting A Voice For Homelessness, my focus is on those who try to make a difference to the hurting around us. A painting which tells a story that invites the viewer to step into a new circumstance is always an intriguing task. A good painting can be beautiful, skillful or technically expressive, however when combined with a relatable experience through story, it is so much more.

Homelessness is really only one unexpected tragedy away from any of us.

I painted this especially for an exhibition with the theme Community Connection. Coincidentally the opening week happens to coincide with Homeless Australia Week. Limited to one entry for this theme I deliberated between illustrating the food van run by Holy Fools or the advocacy of someone who has petitioned in the cold for many years to voice change.

My oil painting titled Voice For Homelessness was birthed by following the work of Neal Taylor of Holy Fools and Councillor Tim Heenan. Both men connected and became friends, advocating for and assisting our local homeless. Homelessness is escalating in Victoria. This has been exasperated by the extensive lock downs, migration and recent rental legislation. These have significantly affected our economy and lack of affordable housing. Sadly, many Victorian families including single mothers and children now find themselves living in cars or on the street. The numbers are climbing and the funds allocated for support frankly appalling.

It won’t be politicians, it will be the people that make the difference.

After a recent lengthy discussion Cr Heenan explained that the problem is more than substantial. In his own words he believes that, “It won’t be politicians, it will be the people that make the difference.” His frustration and heartbreak for this growing sector of our community could be felt as he shared. The interesting way he chose to raise awareness is what initiated my painting.

WINTER IN A CARDBOARD BOX

Tim has spent over 250 wintry nights in a makeshift shelter to draw attention to the plight and dangers to our homeless. My painting depicts the construction and some signage of one of his box shelters, suggesting the messaging we all need to see “HOMELESS DIE OF HYPOTHERMIA” and “HOMELESSNESS SHOULD NOT BE A WAY OF LIFE!” Tim would create a shelter was made of cardboard and small mattress and later a mattress plastic cover to stop some of wet. One year he spent a whole month demonstrating this way. Tim’s health now is prohibitive to minus zero nights but more brave souls have also taken up the challenge to raise awareness and funding during the Winter Freeze Out. 

‘I’m proud to say that last year we raised $33,000 and I was sponsored $4000’ Tim explained. The ARC is a wonderful result of the fundraising efforts creating a drop in center and work station for the work of Holy Fools. I got the impression that emergency housing is like winning the lottery.

Returning to the theme, Community Connection brainstormed by Ringwood Art Society in partnership with Millers Homestead and Sponsors. People making a difference in the lives of the homeless is community connection worth documenting by an artist and on display as an example. Those who actively assist the prosperity and healing of others should be honoured. They are a grassroots gesture of kindness.

Before we ended our conversation, I asked Tim what is the most important point he’d like shared in my article. He replied simply to BE KIND.

My painting is available for sale. Please visit the links to read further or support the outreaches mentioned. It’s never too late to help in some small way or make a difference.

PAINTING DETAILS

Voice For Homelessness
9 x 12 inch Oil on Canvas Panel
Framed ready to hang
Available at Miller Homestead/ Ringwood Art Society Exhibition until 30th September unless sold or esquire via EMAIL

I thank Holy Fools for reference permissions and hope to represent their Street Angles Outreach in a future work.