Founded in 1996, this year marks the 25^th year of operation for Hands On Studio. In that 25 years, Hands On Studio has become leader in the field of arts and disabilities in the Canberra region, establishing a model for a creative community guided by the principle that art is fundamental to human expression and that all people are entitled to its tools of communication.

Over the years, the artists who attend the program have collaborated with their peers as well as local and interstate practicing artists. They have built relationships with various creative institutions and have continuously produced works to be exhibited throughout the community.

To celebrate 25 years of outstanding art making we are excited to share the Hands on Studio Short Film. Please take a few minutes to meet a few of our team of artists who work across both the M16 and Tenison Woods Studios and hear what they have to say about being a part of the Hands On Studio Community.

Click here to watch the video : Life at Hands On Studio

Many thanks to the wonderful stars of the movie, Hands On Studio Artists: Lucia Calaby, Karen Bondietti, Julian Young, Mattie Templeman and Steven Corsini. Hands On Studio Staff: Kristie Watts, Jane Dunn, Simon Mitchell and Matilda Hillam.

We would also like to say a special Thank You to Tilly Davey for organising and commissioning the film and to Peter Frith for capturing our community so stunningly.

To further commemorate the milestone we would like to invite you are your chosen guests to attend our public exhibitions that will be on display at a selection of Canberra’s leading creative institutions:

‘THE TOWN’

Immerse yourself in our 3D multi-media TOWN installation. Our community has built a The Town that will meet the dreams, wishes and desires of our community and beyond.

FRIDAY JUNE 18TH – SUNDAY AUGUST 15^TH @ THE DRILL HALL GALLERY, ACTON, ACT

For more info: https://dhg.anu.edu.au/

‘HAPPY 25^TH HANDS ON STUDIO’

A selection of works produced from 1996-2021

THURSDAY JULY 1^ST – SUDNAY JULY 18^TH@ M16 ARTSPACE, GRIFFITH, ACT

For more info: https://www.m16artspace.com.au/new-gallery-4/hands-on-25th-birthday

Hands On Studio is excited about what the future holds as the program continues to grow and meet the creative wants and needs of the Canberra community and beyond.

“HAPPY BIRTHDAY HANDS ON STUDIO MAY THE CANDLES OF CREATIVITY STAY LIT FOREVER”