A community of local artists have come together in Wollongong to honour the legacy of a special woman.
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The sixth annual Jayne Wilson Memorial Exhibition, with art works from around Australia featuring the theme of "community" is a celebration of creativity to honour Jayne Wilson's service to the Illawarra.
Wilson established the First Floor Program, for families impacted by substance use, mental health issues and suicide, in 1996.
The well-known police chaplain lost her battle to cancer on Christmas day 2013.
The annual art competition and exhibition was established in her honour.
This year's exhibition is at The Salvation Army Wollongong premises. It runs from January 24 to February 3 and features a collection of work by local artist Aiden Campbell who won the inaugural award in 2015.
The 14-year-old has since gone on to have a number of successful solo shows and pursue his passion for creativity - using art as a means to express himself.
Most of the Towradgi artist's work is aimed at raising awareness of children with learning and memory disabilities - like Aiden himself, who has a mild form of autism.
He was initially inspired to pursue art following a family holiday to Europe.
"When I was seven, I went to France where I went to a lot of different museums. I saw a lot of famous art works such as the Mona Lisa and it inspired me to try art. When I came home, I went to my first art class. I have done art ever since," Aiden said.
He used his winnings from the inaugural Jayne Wilson Memorial Exhibition to purchase art supplies.
First Floor Program team leader Marilyn Dunn said it was important to involve the community in honouring Jayne Wilson.
"Jayne loved the concept of community and felt that it was vital in helping people live full and happy lives, so this year's theme is really fitting," she said.
The exhibition has been organised in conjunction with the Wilson family, who will judge the winning competition entry in the Wilson Family Award - for the work which best represents Ms Wilson - and serves as an important fundraiser for the First Floor Program.
Agron Latifi
Wollongong born and bred. I love reporting about the Illawarra region and have been doing it for more than 20 years. I've moved into sport recently after covering the education round for the last five plus years for the Illawarra Mercury. It's been a great pleasure.
Wollongong born and bred. I love reporting about the Illawarra region and have been doing it for more than 20 years. I've moved into sport recently after covering the education round for the last five plus years for the Illawarra Mercury. It's been a great pleasure.
