In the picturesque hinterland suburb of Gilston, nestled on leafy Kookaburra Drive, sits the aptly named Kookaburra Art Studio.

Its founder, Diana Penaloza Aponte, is living her dream of running a dedicated art studio that provides people living with disabilities an opportunity to express themselves within a community where they feel fully included. 

We had the privilege of chatting with Diana about her art, her students, and their upcoming exhibitions.

Have long have you been an artist and how did you first get started?

I’ve been an artist since I was 12 years old. I discovered my passion for art when I worked at the Museum of Art in Lima, Peru. When I was 17, I began my studies at the University of Fine Art “Escuela National de Bellas Artes” and was teaching art in schools to pay my way through. Teaching soon became less of a side gig and more of a passion, so I decided to study a masters in education.

What inspired you to start Kookaburra Art Studio?

When I came to Australia, I volunteered with people with disabilities and offered them art programs. I got some wonderful feedback from my students, which motivated me to create my own art studio dedicated to teaching people with disabilities and mental health challenges.

Kookaburra Art Studio started six years ago, and at the beginning of this year I decided to formalise the studio as a registered company and dedicate myself to it full time. The studio is open to the public and welcomes everyone for both daytime and evening classes.

What have been some of the highlights of your journey working with artists who live with disabilities?

Goodness, there have been so many. 

For the past three years, many artists from the studio have participated in the Doyles Art Award, a significant art exhibition in Mudgeeraba. Annika Strand and Maree Nicholls made it to the final selection. Mark Gibson sold a painting and Katie Rogers got an art commission. It was a very successful event for us.

In September, my students hosted an art class at Gilston State School where they served as mentors for the children. I strongly encourage other schools to open their doors to artists of all abilities to provide the children with an opportunity to learn from a diverse range of people.

At the Gold Coast Show, Kookaburra student Tash Tupper received an award. Emma Green was a finalist in the National Stroke Award 2023 – her art conveys a beautiful message that life continues and it’s possible to not only recover, but excel.

Annika Strand, who is an emerging artist that also works at HOTA, recently held an exhibition at One Arts Gallery where she sold over $2,000 worth of art.

You were recently a finalist at the Doyles Art Award where your beautiful painting was sold. How was that experience?

I haven’t had a lot of time to dedicate to my personal painting due to my teaching commitments, but I always try to create a piece for the Doyles. My children and I prepare paintings together for it, which has become a cherished tradition for us. The experience was remarkable because I shared it with my students – we were all artists alongside each other.

How did the artists feel about having their work displayed at such a busy and popular exhibition?

Several of my students eagerly look forward to participating in the Doyles each year. Some even start working on their piece as soon as the previous exhibition finishes! 

I spoke with several of my students about the experience, and you can read it in their own words:

Katie Rogers: “I’m passionate about painting because it helps me relax. Two of my paintings were featured in the Doyles, which was a dream come true. This opportunity led to a heart-warming experience where a lady saw my horse painting and commissioned a painting of her dog who had passed away. It’s a powerful feeling to have my work appreciated by a wider audience. Diana is the best at motivating me to pursue my dreams.”

Mark Gibson: “I found the Doyles exhibition to be truly awesome, with so many talented artists. My piece sold, which was an amazing feeling. I really enjoy going to Kookaburra Art Studio as the atmosphere is friendly and relaxing. In three years, Diana has guided me through various mediums and now my work is out in the world.”

Maree Nicholls: “Diana’s intuitive teaching style challenged me to expand my capabilities and better manage my anxiety and depression. She opened doors for me that I never thought possible. 2023 was my first ever Doyles experience, and it was incredible to receive an email informing me that I was a finalist in the Still Life category. This achievement has bolstered my self-confidence. Through art, I feel that there are no limitations due to disability.”

Are there any exhibitions coming up for your students, and how can Gold Coasters get involved?

Kookaburra Art Student and One Arts Gallery are excited to announce the first art award in celebration of National Day of Persons with Disabilities. From 30 November to 10 December, we will be holding an exhibition called “Prints of Life” at Robina Art Gallery, and concurrently at One Arts Gallery in Isle of Capri until 16 January 2024.

We welcome the public to come and support our gallery and pop-up shops throughout the exhibition.

To find out more about the upcoming exhibition, Diana and her students, head to the Kookaburra Art Studio website or OneArts Gold Coast.