AUTHOR, artist and child advocate Dorina Vitiello will invite audiences to see the world through the eyes of a child at an immersive Mount Cotton event this month.
The 67-year-old Loganholme woman will present The Earth Children at The Grove Kitchen and Bar from 6pm on November 11, bringing together art, music, stories, food and a seven-minute auditory experience.
Ms Vitiello said the evening grew from a lifetime spent caring for, advocating for and encouraging children, particularly those living with disability.
“It brings these things together to create a message about children, inclusion and creativity,” she said.
“It is an evening built around art, storytelling, community, and the belief that every child has a voice, an imagination and a light within them that deserves to be seen.”
At the heart of the event is the story of Ms Vitiello’s nephew, published author and artist Jeremy Vos, 28, whom she raised alongside his twin sister Amy.
Mr Vos has Jacobson Syndrome and autism, and Ms Vitiello said his determination to help others had inspired her work.
“I am very proud of Jeremy,” she said.
“He acts as a mentor and doesn’t focus on the negative.
“God placed it on his heart to help other people.
“I want the world to see how beautiful and funny he is.
“He’s a lovely young man, but I worry about his future.”
Ms Vitiello said she hoped guests would connect not only with the artworks but with their own memories and emotions.
“I want them to look at the artwork, but also to look within themselves,” she said.
“To perhaps remember the child they once were, the part of themselves that still needs kindness, connection and understanding.
“I hope they feel something.
“Perhaps they remember something.
“Perhaps they leave seeing themselves, or someone else, a little differently.”
Ms Vitiello is also the creator of Creating a Colourful Heart, an individualised educational program for children.
Her experience includes fostering children, adopting three children and caring for 26 emergency placements.
She has written four books and continues to advocate for children, especially those with disability.
Tickets are $65 and include Dolce Vita Italian food platters, a drink, tea, coffee and dessert.
Some artworks will also be auctioned on the night.
Bookings can be made on 0422 066 115.
More information is available at awakenthehealing heart.net.
