Connecting to culture and community through art
Mid last year, the Benevolent Society partnered with Kurranulla Aboriginal Corporation and Bulbuwil ‘Healthy Living’ Aboriginal Lifestyle Support Program to run a series of Art and Wellbeing workshops.
Held over eight weeks, the classes combined art lessons and wellness classes to help participants improve and maintain their health, wellbeing and independence and to connect to culture through art. As well as building strong foundations for their mental health, the class had the chance to try activities like Pilates, and learn about health conditions like diabetes, before re-energising with a facilitated art class.
Participants were introduced to Aboriginal painting and weaving techniques for the first time. Most One young woman joyfully exclaimed, “I’m having a lot of fun – this is the most fun I’ve had in a long time!”
Leanne from Kurranulla Aboriginal Corporation said the program as a great success, because it “gave people choices, and brought men and women together from all different ages.” Leanne explained that men’s and women’s business is often kept separate in Aboriginal activities, but this workshop successfully brought men and women together for a hands-on activities.
One man said, “It’s been really good for me in lots of ways – it’s filling a bit of a void.” Another woman commented that the program was “absolutely wonderful,” because she was learning new skills and being part of the community.
“It’s been really good for me in lots of ways – it’s filling a bit of a void.”
How art relates to wellbeing
Just two hours of art a week has a proven positive effect on our mental health – with art being any creative act people do as part of their everyday lives, including reading a book, playing an instrument, singing, or attending a concert or exhibition. According to the study, regular engagement with art increases enjoyment, relaxation, social inclusion and resilience. Making art together, in community, is fun – and when we have fun, our mental health improves.
Partnering for a connected community
The Benevolent Society looks forward to partnering with the Kurranulla Aboriginal Corporation and the Bulbuwil ‘Healthy Living’ Aboriginal Lifestyle Support Program to develop engaging community programs.