Deaf Children Australia recently hosted our 2025 Art Exhibition, showcasing 58 works by deaf and hard of hearing young people aged 0 to 23 from across the country. This year’s theme, “I Can”, celebrated creativity and resilience within our community. The exhibition ran from 15–25 September at our Bluestone building on St Kilda Road, Melbourne, with a special launch event on 20 September announcing award winners.
Judging was led by deaf and deafblind artists Chelle Destefano, Rachel Horton Stock and Joe Monteleone, bringing expertise in sculpture, painting and performance. We are grateful to the National Relay Service for sponsoring the event and to Brett Phillips for sponsoring an award towards our art show winners.
Among the featured artists was Leah Butler, whose piece “I Can Fly” celebrated individuality and freedom. Leah shared: “Some people see deafness as something to hide, but I take it as a superpower… I am that unique one!”
The exhibition was a vibrant showcase of identity, reminding us that every young person has their own way to soar.
If you would like to look through some of the amazing pieces created by these young artists and learn more about the story behind them you can find the online catalogue here.