28th September, 2009

Compassion Australia's inaugural art exhibition, The Face of Compassion, has opened in Sydney. The exhibition features 30 works of art by some of Australia's best artists, bringing to life the stories of children affected by desperate circumstances - children who wake up most days wondering where their next meal willl come from. Also featured are artworks by Dhea Savitri - a 12-year-old child from Indonesia who has been assisted by Compassion. Compassion Australia chief executive Paul O'Rourke says the exhibition aims to bring together like-minded Australian artists to "make a powerful stand against world poverty in a practical way". All exhibited works are available for sale with the proceeds going towards Compassion's response to the global food crisis and the ongoing work of Compassion around the world. The exhibition, at 72 Erskine Street in Sydney, runs until 1st October. It can also be viewed online at www.compassion.com.au/art.

     DHEA SAVITRI: 'Where do I go to live when my house will be real estate and a golf field?'

     MATT BAKER: 'Matthew 18:5 - "(A)nd whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me" - Jesus.' (charcoal)

     DIANA COOPER: 'The Street Kids of Rio' (mixed media - oil, acrylic and newsprint)

                                          JONATHON SCOONES: 'Field of Dreams' (acrylic and oil)