Focus on abilities: How art made profound change in Stacey’s life

An inspiring Toowoomba woman who lives with different abilities and mental health, has now released a book designed to relieve others of anxiety, just months after picking a paint brush up for the first time.

When Stacey Turner picked up a paint brush for the first time, she had no idea just how significant the moment would be.

The 40-year-old Toowoomba woman, who lives with physical disabilities and mental health struggles, said she had spent a lot of time in and out of hospitals with art proving to be a helpful distraction.

“When I first started I could barely draw a stick figure, and I had very little experience with drawing or painting,” Ms Turner said.

“Art has motivated me to stay out of hospital, given me a reason to get out of bed in the morning and provided me with a sense of achievement.”

Stacey Turner who lives with different abilities has released her own handmade colouring-in book for anxiety relief and greeting cards range. Picture: Rhylea Millar

Ms Turner began attending art group classes through Wagtail Services, allowing her to broaden her creative horizons with watercolour, pottery and knitting.

Passionate about helping others who struggle with mental health, the talented artist and her friend have released a book containing 15 colouring-in activities for anxiety relief.

Featuring a variety of patterns, the book entitled Turner Appletree Squiggles launched less than a month ago and more than 30 copies have already been sold.

Ms Turner, who also makes her own greeting cards with thoughtful designs for all occasions, made more than 300 card sales last December in the lead-up to Christmas.

Stacey Turner who lives with different abilities has released her own handmade colouring-in book for anxiety relief and greeting cards range. Picture: Rhylea Millar

Now she is encouraging others going through a difficult time to invest their spare time in creative outlets.

“You don’t have to be perfect the first time you pick up a paintbrush or pencil,” Ms Turner said.

“Art made me realise that just because I’m unwell doesn’t mean I’m stuck in that cycle.

“People have always focused on my disability, rather than my abilities, so it’s nice for there to be a bigger focus on what I can do.”

Both the book and greeting cards can be purchased at the Glenvale Pharmacy on Greenwattle St, Harristown.