By Natalie Gallenti
WHEN Michael Van Roehl paints, the world shines for him.
The intellectually disabled 37-year-old spends hours each day at the Mambourin disability day centre facility in Sunshine, painting indigenous inspired works.
And next week his pieces will be on display at Federation Square as part of the ADEC ArtAbility 2010 exhibition.
The exhibition will showcase works from almost 100 artists from across Melbourne with a disability and from ethnically diverse backgrounds.
This year’s summer theme has allowed artists to express themselves in colourful, bold ways, with Mr Van Roehl including the sun in many of his pieces. He said his indigenous background and love of nature was the inspiration behind his work.
“I like to paint the sun, because it’s bright,” he said.
The Braybrook resident said he feels happiest when he is painting, something which comes easy and often helps him relax.
Mambourin manager Jasna Cvitkovic said Mr Van Roehl had exemplified an eagerness to participate in the exhibition and had genuine artistic ability. She said he also participates in cooking and sports classes.
ArtAbility runs from December 6 to 14 at The Atrium at Federation Square.
