David Bryant from Mount Druitt, Sydney, has been visiting the Vinnies Van for more than 10 years. While he appreciates the food, what matters most to him is the opportunity to connect with volunteers and fellow visitors.

Roger Perera, Vinnies Van Team Leader (Greater Western Sydney), reflects on David’s ongoing engagement with the Society - I have known David for over eight years and have seen how deeply he values the people who support the van runs. He shows his gratitude by giving every volunteer a birthday and Christmas card each year. David really appreciates those who give up their evenings to help others and always thanks them warmly.

A Lifelong Passion for Art

Art has long been a central part of David’s life. He finds joy and fulfilment in both creating and appreciating it, and it continues to be one of his greatest passions.

His love of art was sparked further in 1994, when he spent eight months backpacking through the northern hemisphere and visiting galleries across Europe, London, New York, and Washington. A year later, while attending the Archibald Prize exhibition at the Art Gallery of NSW with his friend Sebastian, David vividly remembers being captivated by the colours on display. That experience strengthened his desire to keep pursuing art.

Discovering His Own Creative Talent

Although David completed an honours degree in Applied Science (Land Economics), he lost his job in April 2005. He later began attending a Disability Activities Centre linked to Blacktown Mental Health Services, where seeing others create art inspired him to explore his own abilities.

He went on to complete an 18-week TAFE Certificate of Fine Arts at Nepean, where he built foundational skills and gained confidence in his artistic talent. Since then, David has created 40 paintings, mainly in acrylics, along with eight paint-by-number works.

Some of David’s most treasured pieces include:

• Portraits of his late parents
• A portrait of a member of his church congregation
• Three lifelike giraffe paintings

Art as Strength and Encouragement

Art has also been a source of comfort during difficult times. David used colouring to help stay positive while caring for his mother for more than nine years before her passing in July last year.

He has participated in several mental health art exhibitions and has received recognition for his work. During COVID, he won his first trophy for Cactus and Succulents in the City of Parramatta International Day for People with Disabilities Art Competition. More recently, he won first prize in the MHFA online art competition for his painting Tree, which now hangs proudly in his church hall.

Friendship and Support

One of the most life changing moments in David's life came in 2007, when his mental health case worker referred him to a St Vincent de Paul volunteer companion, Michael.  Nearly 20 years later, Michael continues to provide David friendship, encouragement, and support.

David remains deeply grateful to his church, his friend Michael, his Vinnies Van support network, and the Grow community. Their encouragement and belief in him have meant a great deal.

Looking Ahead

David has already painted over 45 paintings and is planning two more beach-themed paintings. David sends his love and appreciation to everyone who has supported him on his artistic journey.

Luna, David’s third cat in 22 years, also brings him great comfort and happiness. Affectionate and lovable, she especially enjoys chin rubs.

I would like to extend my very best wishes to David and Luna and hope he continues to follow his passion for art and find ongoing happiness.

Article by Roger, Vinnies Van Team Leader (Greater Western Sydney), with permission from David Bryant