Equal Pay, Equal Opportunity: Teresa’s Role in Bayside Creatives Month

Teresa’s journey at Bayley Arts shows how giving people fair opportunities can create real change.

As part of Bayside Council’s ‘Bayside Creatives Month’, supported by Bayley House, Teresa has the chance to share her skills and grow as a professional artist.

Since joining the Bayley Arts NDIS art program, Teresa has found a love for printmaking, especially drypoint etching. With the introduction of printmaking into our programs, Teresa has focused on drypoint etching and worked every week with Katie Starkey, a skilled printmaker and artist. These regular sessions have helped Teresa become confident and skilled in her craft. Her passion for printmaking continues to grow with Katie’s support.

The Introduction to Drypoint Etching workshop, held in partnership with Bayside Council, was a big step for Teresa. In the workshop, she co-lead with Katie, sharing her knowledge with the public. This experience has helped Teresa build confidence, gain teaching experience, and take a step closer to her dream of becoming an artist and art teacher.

What made this workshop even more significant is that Teresa was paid the same artist fee as Katie. This highlights that her skills and contributions are equally valued. It is a great example of how we can create fair employment opportunities for people with disability and treat them as respected professionals.

Teresa has said she wants to teach art and grow as an artist, and this workshop has helped her take that step. This example shows why it is so important to support opportunities where everyone can succeed.

At Bayley Arts, we believe in creating a space where everyone can have the chance to shine. Teresa’s journey is a reminder of how we can create opportunities, break down barriers, and show the world the amazing talent of artists of all abilities.