The audience is set to be immersed in the world of arts and disability and witness how the exhibiting artists have opened that world, advocating for inclusivity through art.

The group exhibition brings together 22 emerging and established artists with and without learning disability from the Riverina, Wollongong from all the way to Liverpool, UK.

Curated by Sarah McEwan from the Cad Factory, the exhibition is a partnership between the Cad Factory, Griffith Regional Art Gallery, Riverina Community College and Western Riverina Arts to raise the profile of learning disabled artists.

"I really want people to witness that here in the Riverina we have a strong inclusive community," she said.

Leanne Dyer from Riverina Community College confirms this.

"Here at the college we support 18 emerging and established artists with learning disability to pursue their professional arts practice. Many travel from across the region to work in our studio each week," Ms Dyer said.

"We are simply delighted that ten of the participating artists in Yield are supported via the college."

Griffith Regional Art Gallery Curator, Ray Wholohan, approached McEwan to curate a large scale exhibition showcasing local talent back in 2016.

Manager, Raina Savage, adds that, "Griffith Regional Art Gallery's vision is to be 'a recognisd leader in the creation and presentation of innovative and inclusive visual arts'.

"Presenting a project that promotes the professional and creative development of local artists with disability, and broader recognition for their artistic practice, was a great way to realise that vision."

Four senior students from Kalinda School in Griffith worked with staff from Griffith Regional Art Gallery, Sarah McEwan and artists from the Riverina Community College to develop new work for the exhibition.

Student Joel Stedman commented, "I liked making artworks each week with my friends. It was fun!"

While teacher Nickolette Owen is "eagerly waiting to see the final results of the students hard work."

The opening of Yield is on Friday 16 August from 6pm to 8pm at Griffith Regional Art Gallery.

All are welcome to attend the celebration.

On Saturday 17 August from 11am - 2pm at Griffith Regional Art Gallery there will be a forum to share and discuss local, national and international progressive art practices.

A creative program of short films made by and about people with learning disability will be screened as well. Both events are free to attend, and no bookings are required.

Derek Motion from Western Riverina Arts said as an organisation they are proud to be supporting the artists involved in Yield.

"The exhibition is contributing to a richer, more diverse arts landscape in the Western Riverina," he concludes.

The exhibition continues until Sunday 22 September.

***

While you're with us, did you know that you can now receive updates straight to your inbox every Monday at 6am from The Area News? To make sure you're up to date with all the Griffith and MIA news you can sign up here.