A series of art and well-being workshops were held across the South West during July.
South West HHS Regional Adversity Coordinator Gavin Johannesen said the “South West Starry Skies” workshops were hosted by regional Queensland artist Sue Hamlet and were held in Cunnamulla, Thargomindah, Quilpie and Charleville.
Gavin said the workshops were well supported by the communities. “Even if you have never painted before, these workshops are for you, ” he said.
“Participants were shown how to create a stunning native-style canvas artwork of the night sky over their communities.”
He said the workshops created a positive, encouraging, and supportive space to connect with others and make a piece that affirms the value of community.
“Our emotional health is just as important as our physical health and its vital we strive to nurture and care for ourselves both mentally and physically, especially during this time of the pandemic and other continuing daily pressures of life,” he said.
“Participants were encouraged to include any elements that feel like ‘home’ or ‘peace’ to them, and particularly the people and places that feel like ‘connection’ to them.
“This often resulted in great discussions in the group. ”
The workshops were free and sponsored by the Queensland Government’s Tackling Regional Adversity through Connected Communities (TRACC) program, as well as the South West HHS and the Royal Flying Doctor Service.