Walls that Talk is a place activation initiative that displays images on the front wall of Maitland Library for the whole community to enjoy and experience.

I Am...

This edition of Walls that Talk is an exhibition by Mai-Wel. Since 1960, Mai-Wel has been a cornerstone of the Maitland community, dedicated to empowering people with disability and young people. They support individuals to achieve their goals and dreams, enabling them to live a life ‘Full of Possible’.

Their vision is: Empowering People. Changing Lives. Mai-Wel offers incredible programs that inspire and empower individuals. Evident in this exhibit, their passionate artists have showcased their true selves, becoming their own muses.

Traditionally, the muse is an external figure, an ethereal inspiration separate from the artist. In this installation, the artist becomes a powerful muse, drawing from their lived experiences and artistic journeys to fuel their creativity.

The headpieces featured in the exhibition serve as a central element, a physical manifestation of this internal muse. Crafted from paper, paint and other materials, these pieces become canvases for their artistic processes. Each creation reflects the multifaceted nature of inspiration.

By becoming their own muses, the seven artists delve into themes of self exploration and expression and the transformative power of artistic creation. The portraits of each artist transform the creator into the creation.

Maitland City Council is proud to have partnered with Mai-Wel to bring this exhibition to the wider community.