Melbourne education and training provider, Catalyst Education, has found a creative way to enhance its values, meet social impact goals, and build more inclusion into the workplace, by commissioning artworks from two acclaimed James Street Gallery artists with disability to hang proudly in their head office.

genU James Street Gallery artists James Ward and Marcus Lovell were commissioned by Catalyst late last year, with their impactful works now hanging at Catalyst in Southbank; their impact already being felt by staff and visitors. 

Catalyst Education CEO Kean Selway said Catalyst had sought artwork that was not only visually impactful, but also carried a deeper story and meaning, which made the genU James Street Gallery artists a perfect fit. 

“The partnership reflects Catalyst’s commitment to community empowerment and aligning with organisations that promote diversity, innovation, and social inclusion,” Mr Selway said​. 

genU CEO Clare Amies said the genU art program proudly supported people with disability to follow their artistic passions, as a way of sharing their unique skills and being part of a community who share a desire to explore their creativity.  

Ms Amies was delighted the genU artwork was having such a deep and positive impact within the Catalyst workplace and acknowledged the mutual benefits derived from the project. 

“Partnering with Catalyst, who share our passion for inclusion, is one way we can work towards our goal of creating genuinely inclusive communities,” Clare said. 

“This purpose has a clear crossover with genU’s purpose, which is to enrich lives through connections, supports and opportunities. 

“With the support of our art program, our artists produce outstanding work, so it’s fantastic to hear James and Marcus’ pieces are resonating with Catalyst staff, enriching their lives and helping create a more inclusive workplace in a very tangible way. 

“I know how much it means to our artists to have their talents recognised and validated through being paid for their efforts.” 

Mr Selway said Catalyst had sought artwork that was not only visually impactful, but also carried a deeper story and meaning, which made the genU James Street Gallery artists a perfect fit. 

And the artists are no strangers to turning blank canvases into captivating pieces of art. 

Marcus is one of the longest serving clients to attend the studio. He stood alongside then-Premier Jeff Kennett to open James Street Gallery in 1997 and has created countless works of art as part of his creative journey. James has also been a part of the James Street crew for many years, creating his works with a quiet and determined focus.

James was commissioned to create four large pieces joined together (a quadriptych) to depict a flowing landscape cascading from one canvas to the other. In a striking contrast, Marcus created a bright and dynamic piece featuring colourful animals on a vivid background.

Along with the artist’s message in each work, the pieces also symbolise Catalyst’s dedication to fostering meaningful connections and supporting social impact initiatives. 

“Each artwork tells a story, sparking conversations and serving as a reminder of the power of art to connect people and ideas,” Mr Selway said. 

“For Catalyst, these pieces are a celebration of human potential and the value of diverse voices in creative expression.”

Since being displayed towards the end of 2024, the artwork has also been warmly embraced by Catalyst staff. 

“The storytelling aspect behind the pieces has resonated deeply, making the workspace feel more vibrant and reflective of Catalyst’s values,” Mr Selway said. 

“We have since done a team organisational activity that incorporated the artwork. The artwork not only enhances the physical space but also inspires staff, reminding them of the broader impact of their work and partnerships.”

genU James Street Gallery coordinator Teresa Lawrence said James and Marcus completed their commissions over several weeks. 

“James was working on the floor initially from one canvas to the next, making sure they would hang next to each other harmoniously,” Teresa said. “And Marcus’ inspiration was one of the murals he created at the gallery entrance. The new work has an updated vibe and some new additions!”

Organisations seeking artwork to help meet their social impact aims can be commissioned through the genU Arts Program.