A remarkable fabric-sewn artwork from the Women Elders Sewing Group has been commissioned by St John of God Health Care to be displayed within the Armadale Head to Health mental health centre.
The centre is set to open on Church Avenue in Armadale at the end of October and aims to provide free caring and inclusive mental health support in a calm, safe and welcoming community setting.
The Women Elders Sewing Group’s artwork centres on the theme of Mental Health Week, promoting mental health and wellbeing through the power of art.
The artwork was initiated by active group member Beverley Phipps, while the entire Elders women’s group contributed their insights and designs, providing a distinct Noongar perspective.
It carries a profound message about mental health within the Noongar community, depicting a Noongar individual struggling with the challenges of mental health and its effects not only on the mind but the entire body.
The artwork shows community support represented through family, friends and professionals including the Champion Centre and St John of God Health Care, eager to support the suffering individual.
It’s a story of hope, healing, and unity.
The official unveiling of the powerful artwork took place on October 4 at the Champion Centre and was proudly attended by all Elders from the Sewing Group.
Armadale Head to Health manager Ruth Lawrence said she was excited to receive this new artwork from the Champion Centre’s sewing group and to display it at the centre.
“The needs of the local Aboriginal community were specifically sought during the service’s co-design process,” she said.
“We are privileged that as a result of that process, this group have felt comfortable to create this artwork, which will now welcome others to Armadale Head to Health and invite them to share their mental health concerns with our clinicians.”
City of Armadale Mayor Ruth Butterfield added: “the striking piece of art is an embodiment of collaboration, cultural respect, and the shared commitment to mental health awareness and support.”
