Kaleidoscope: exhibition by artists with disability now open ahead of International Day of People with Disability

A vibrant showcase of artworks by artists with disability is now on display at our Kaleidoscope exhibition, which is open to the community ahead of International Day of People with Disability.  

Since 2006, Kaleidoscope has been a platform for artists with disability who access our services to showcase their talent, sell their artworks, and connect with the community. It’s also a launchpad for new opportunities, with many artists going on to take part in community exhibitions, secure commissions, and set up micro businesses.   

This year’s exhibition, held at Kew Court House in Melbourne, opened on Thursday, 27 November and runs until International Day of People with Disability on Wednesday, 3 December.  

Visitors can purchase original artworks, with 100 per cent of the sale price going directly to the artist. For the first time, merchandise such as tote bags and framed prints featuring artists’ designs is available, creating more paid opportunities and ways for supporters to get involved.   

Lisa Evans, Chief Executive Officer, said Kaleidoscope reflects the heart of our mission.  

“This exhibition really captures what Scope is all about – creating meaningful opportunities for people with disability to belong and thrive. It offers a welcoming space for artists with disability to share their creative talent, connect with the community, and discover new opportunities.”   

From Kaleidoscope to building a micro business

Urban Lights - by Jackie, Keone, Matthew, and Tim from Warragul Arts Group

This year, Kaleidoscope is showcasing 64 original artworks from solo artists and group collaborations from across Melbourne, regional Victoria, and New South Wales. The collection includes paintings, ceramics, sculptures, screen prints, and clay works.  

In Kaleidoscope tradition, three artists received awards on opening night. First prize went to Jackie, Keone, Matthew, and Tim from Warragul Arts Group for their painting titled Urban Lights.

Maree, Team Leader at Warragul Social Connections, said the group worked hard to produce the piece.

“We had been playing with acrylics and different everyday items to achieve texture and interest in our work. The group enjoyed seeing the results and it’s paid off,” said Maree. 

Kaleidoscope award winners with Scope staff. First row L-R: Peter, artist, Keone, Jackie, and Tim from Warragul Arts Group (Matthew was unable to attend). Second row L-R: Kira, Community Inclusion Arts Project Lead, Mimari, artist, Emily, Community Inclusion Manager, Zachary, artist, Lisa Evans, Chief Executive Officer, Amanda Handley, General Manager Social Connections

Mimari won third prize for her painting titled Happy Memories.

"The mould-paste artwork I’m showing this year is a design where I had to keep moving the scraper, because if I stopped, the moulding paste would harden. That means I must be brave and make bold designs!” said Mimari.

Mimari is a regular contributor to Kaleidoscope, and in 2024, sold her artworks and secured two commissions – and she is now launching her own micro business. For Mimari, art is an important way to have her voice heard. 

“I find talking to people hard, and making friends is not easy. But when someone pays attention to my art, I feel like I’m not invisible anymore. It’s as if they’re listening to me, even though I don’t say much out loud. I’m telling the world, ‘I’m here.’”

Mimari won third prize for her artwork titled Happy Memories.

New mentorship program for artists with disability

In 2026, Kaleidoscope is expanding its impact through a $10,000 mentorship program for artists with disability, delivered together with Arts Access Victoria. The program, launched on opening night, will pair a Kaleidoscope artist with an established artist to provide personalised guidance to help them reach their goals.  

The program honours the late Uncle Greg Muir, who was a Scope client and major contributor to Kaleidoscope. His art career was propelled after completing a mentorship program with Scope in 2015.    

“Uncle Greg was a First Nations Elder, artist, and person with disability who had a deep connection to Country. His art reflected his culture, heritage, and personal journey – taking audiences across landscapes and into deeply personal stories,” said Lisa Evans, Chief Executive Officer.     

“With his family’s blessing, this new mentorship program will carry his legacy forward.”        

Find more details about the exhibition on our Kaleidoscope page

Watch the highlights below