Summary
An inspiring collection of paintings by young First Nations artists now takes pride of place on the walls of Gladstone Hospital – a fitting way to celebrate NAIDOC Week (6–13 July).
The exhibition, “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy”, was coordinated by Cosmos Arts for Health and now proudly hangs in the medical ward to brighten the days of patients, staff and visitors.
It is the culminating achievement in a special journey for 16 Kin Kora State School students who had the opportunity to learn about cultural storytelling and the healing role of art in hospitals.
The enthusiastic students attended a workshop with highly accomplished First Nations Artists Howard (Joe) Butler and Kaylene Butler, who guided them through cultural practices and creative techniques, encouraging each budding artist to explore their personal stories
through art.
Cosmos Arts for Health Inc’s Project Manager Katrina Elliott talked about the many career paths artists could take and how artwork in hospitals played a vital role in care, comfort, and community identity.
Nurse Unit Manager of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health, Adriana Johnson, was also thrilled to engage with students at the workshop.
“It was such a privilege to get to know the students and watch them grow in confidence as they painted their artworks,” Adriana said.
“They represent the next generation, who will honour Indigenous voices and culture from the past while making their own unique contributions to a bright future ahead.”
Gladstone Banana General Manager Anita Pierantozzi was recently thrilled to welcome the students, their teachers and families into Gladstone Hospital for a special unveiling of the exhibition.
“I would like to congratulate the students on creating such amazing artworks. The level of creativity and storytelling is very impressive and I find myself stopping each time I walk down the corridor to look a closer look at the detail in each painting.
“I’d also like to thank Cosmos Arts for Health for continuing to support art initiatives that enhance patient care and staff wellbeing at Gladstone Hospital.”
At the art workshop at Kin Kora State School (from left) Helen Nicols and Tia Sorrensen from the school, artist Joe Butler, Katrina Elliott from Cosmos, Caroline Geesu from the school, and artist Kaylene Butler.
“The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy” exhibition was made possible by:
Cosmos Arts for Health Inc
Aestec Services
Connell Enterprises
Nhulundu Health Service
Central Queensland Health
Santos GLNG
CQShines Hospital Foundation
Australian Government Regional Arts Fund
(provided through Regional Arts Australia and administered in Queensland by Flying Arts).