Exhibit Challenges Ageism, Celebrates Mature Women’s Dance Bodies

Mature Artists Dance Experience (MADE) launches “20 MADE Moments” art exhibition, celebrating their 20th anniversary and boldly challenging ageist stereotypes by highlighting the beauty and vitality of mature women in dance.

The exhibition, launching with a fundraising cocktail party on 31 October 31 is an unapologetic statement against ageism. It champions the visibility of mature women’s bodies in dance, showcasing their strength, grace and rich lived experience.

Media release – Mature Artists Dance Experience (MADE), 29 October 2025

“20 MADE Moments” Art Exhibition Champions Visibility and Challenges Ageism by Celebrating Mature Women’s Bodies in Dance

Mature Artists Dance Experience (MADE), Lutruwita / Tasmania’s pioneering arts and community organisation, is proud to launch “20 MADE Moments”.

Marking MADE’s 20th anniversary, this innovative art exhibition boldly challenges ageism and brings the beauty of mature women’s bodies to the forefront.

Since its inception, MADE has redefined perceptions of ageing, proving that artistry, vitality and creative expression know no age limit. Its ongoing mission is to shatter stereotypes, increase visibility for mature women and inspire a broader appreciation of ageing as a time of possibility, not decline.

As Dr Julie Rimes, MADE Patron, explains,

“Mature dance helps someone rediscover their body, their confidence, their creativity.

“MADE doesn’t just transform lives, it transforms perceptions.

“Creativity does not have a use-by date.”

Founded by determined mature dancers in Nipaluna/Hobart, the company has grown into a dynamic force, producing over 20 acclaimed, original dance works, collaborating with celebrated choreographer Graeme Murphy AO and inspiring audiences locally and internationally.

20 MADE Moments is a powerful celebration of visibility, where mature women’s strength, grace and lived experience are not hidden, but highlighted.

Nipaluna/Hobart artist John Paton’s moving sketches and watercolours, created from life in MADE’s dance classes, are the heart of the exhibition. They capture authentic moments of courage, connection and joy that occur when mature dancers fully inhabit their bodies, offering a refreshing and real portrayal rarely seen in mainstream art and media.

“We believe dance is for everyone, and that every body tells a story worth sharing,”

says Lucinda Sharp, MADE dance tutor and former psychologist with The Australian Ballet.

“John’s paintings turn the spotlight on mature women, celebrating their resilience and creativity, and asserting their right to be seen, valued and heard. In a world that too often renders older women invisible, MADE provides opportunity for them to be visible—vividly, unapologetically and beautifully.”

Artist John Paton

The exhibition launches on 31 October with a fundraising Cocktail Party at St Lukes, 72 Elizabeth Street, Nipaluna/Hobart.

It will feature pop-up performances by the MADE Ensemble, dancers aged between 50 and 78 who amplify the voices and artistry of women who refuse to be sidelined by ageist stereotypes.

There will also be guest appearances by Graeme Murphy AO and Janet Vernon AM, and an opportunity to purchase John Paton’s donated works, including a special series of notecards featuring MADE dancers and their philosophies on life and dance.

After the opening, the exhibition will be free to the public on 1 and 2 November, including midday performances by the MADE Ensemble.

Event Details:

What: “20 MADE Moments” Opening Night Fundraising Cocktail Party, launched by Graeme Murphy AO & Janet Vernon AM
When: Friday, 31 October 2025, 18:00
Where: St Lukes, Elizabeth Street, Nipaluna/Hobart

Features: MADE Ensemble performances, John Paton’s original artwork, quality Tasmanian refreshments

Tickets: Cocktail Party bookings essential. All proceeds support MADE’s mission. The free exhibition and performances continue 1–2 November, noon pop-up dances daily. Tickets can be purchased on MADE’s website.

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