Three Participants from Forrest Personnel’s support services have found success and connection through their shared interest in art. Karen, a Participant in the DES program, recently opened the Artist’s Den in Collie. This achievement came after lots of preparation and long-term planning. Forrest Personnel provided support and encouragement through the planning stages, helping to prepare Karen for business ownership.
The Artist’s Den is strategically located on Collie’s Mural trail, positioning it well for future tourist traffic. While Karen acknowledges that profits may be limited in the initial period, she remains optimistic about the potential for growth during the tourist season.
The Artist’s Den exclusively features work from local artists, including two other Forrest Personnel Participants: Jake and Nila. Nila, another DES Participant, has been with Forrest Personnel for over five years. Initially working at Coles in night fill, her hours were insufficient, and Nila needed to boost her income. Nila, with encouragement from her Forrest Personnel mentor, started her own jewellery-making business called Breeza Beads.
Jake has been supported by his Forrest Personnel NDIS mentor team since early 2024. Despite living in a remote area of southwest Western Australia, Jake received place based support through a collaborative effort between the NDIS team and his existing support network. Through Forrest Personnel’s Discovery process, Jake has been able to identify clear goals for himself and determine the future direction of his artwork.
Nila and Jake have completed Certificates II and III in Visual Arts. During their studies, they met another Forrest Personnel Participant, Freena, further expanding their artistic network. Nila now sells her jewellery at the Artist’s Den on consignment while maintaining her job at Coles. She also volunteers at Collie Art Gallery, where her work is displayed. Jake has made significant progress, becoming part of the local art community and living independently. His artwork is now on display and for sale at the Artist’s Den.
The collaboration between these Participants shows how shared interests can create connections and opportunities. As the Artist’s Den continues to operate and the Participants further develop their skills, they contribute to the cultural landscape of Collie while achieving personal and professional growth.
