The Lost Generation Project Exhibition: Found in Melville

The project recognises that many people with intellectual disabilities have been institutionalised for much of their lives, becoming disconnected from their families and communities. Lost Generation Project Manager Simone Flavelle said the project had assisted participants in developing social networks and enhancing general wellbeing, in addition to facilitating the recognition of people with intellectual disabilities within the broader community.

The exhibition is the culmination of a series of workshops held in the City of Melville over the past six months. It will showcase some of the ceramic artworks produced in workshops conducted at the Willagee Community Centre, as well as digital works and works on paper produced by and about the core project participants. The workshop participants’ artwork will also be integrated with an historical display on intellectual disability and mental health in WA, outlining changes in approaches to intellectual disability, policies and attitudes over different generations.

Acting Curator Gina Capes said the exhibition was a particularly poignant one for the Heathcote Museum and Gallery – which is situated in the historic grounds of the former Heathcote Mental Reception Home. “The site played a significant role in the history of both psychiatric and disability services in WA. Like previous exhibitions which have explored the site's history, this exhibition represents a great opportunity for visitors to again experience that history from a different perspective,” she said.

Found in Melville will be officially opened at 6.00pm on Thursday, 20 August by Disability Services Minister Simon O’Brien, and will run until 27 September 2009. Heathcote Museum and Gallery is located on Duncraig Road, Applecross. It is open Tuesday to Friday from 10.00am to 3.00pm, and on weekends from 11.00am to 3.00pm. Contact the gallery on 9364 5666.