Circle of Healing

For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who are on a journey to healing, art can be incredibly beneficial. It has a unique way of putting people at ease, stimulating the mind, and fostering a deep connection to Country. 

With that in mind, in 2023 the SESLHD Aboriginal Mental Health team successfully applied for a $25,000 grant to support culturally safe spaces for Aboriginal consumers and their families in key locations at Prince of Wales Hospital (POWH), St George Hospital (SGH) and The Sutherland Hospital (TSH). 

The project team conducted site visits and engaged with managers, staff, consumers and their families to gather input on potential space ideas and artworks. The feedback from these consultations informed the final designs, ensuring that the spaces met the needs and acknowledged Community. 

Local Gamilaroi artist Amy Lea Hill-Trindall (pictured) was selected via EOI to create five distinct artworks reflecting community strength, collaboration, and holistic mental health approaches, featuring totem (animals), local flora, and waterways.  

“It has been an incredible project to have worked on as I have had a personal connection with all three hospitals within my life, and being able to create something beautiful and healing for each hospital and each consumer is such an achievement,” said Amy. 

“I hope the artworks guide and inspire consumers on their healing journey.” 

Three of the artworks were hand painted at the Mental Health Intensive Care Unit at POWH. One artwork was placed in the courtyard of the Mental Health Ward at TSH. The final artwork was mounted in the reception area of the St George Community Mental Health Unit in Kogarah. 

Leaning into the connection that all three sites now share, Amy has named this series of artwork Circle of Healing. The artworks harness the connection we have between each other and the environment we live in and how that affects the journey we take in life.  

Completed in June 2024, the murals hope to transform these areas into culturally healing spaces, fostering community connection and enriching the mental health environment for all. 

Pictured: Local Gamilaroi artist Amy Lea Hill-Trindall at the Mental Health Intensive Care Unit at POWH