Shades of Blue was the brainchild of Sabine Altmann, the Western Region domestic violence co-

ordinator, based at Tamworth Police Station up until she was killed in October, 2011.

Ms Altmann died in a car crash at Premer while performing her duties in a job she loved. Now her inspirational idea for an art exhibition has sprung to life in her honour.

Almost 80 artworks adorn the walls of the Billich Gallery in Sydney  by 36 artists – all of whom are serving or former police officers.

Deputy Commissioner Nick Kaldas opened the exhibition and said it not only allowed officers to showcase their work, but it was also a way to engage with the community.

“This exhibition perfectly combines Sabine’s commitment to helping police and the community deal with domestic violence with her passion for art,” he said.

“Sabine was a passionate artist and believed pursuing creative interests is a positive and rewarding way to manage the stress that sometimes comes with the work of a police officer.”

The exhibition coincides with the 16 days of activism against gender violence, another cause close to Ms Altmann’s heart.

The exhibition is open at Billich Gallery in The Rocks, Sydney, until tomorrow.