Walawaani. Last Friday we launched our Health Welcome Project in the Eurobodalla, another exciting element to our SWELL: Arts & Health initiative.
Artwork and signage using the word “Walawaani” is now prominent at Moruya Hospital, Batemans Bay Hospital and the Narooma Community Health Services.
Walawaani means ‘hello and welcome’ in Dhurga language of the Yuin people.
South East Arts collaborated with local Aboriginal artists Cheryl Davison, Natalie Bateman and the Art Group from Katungul Aboriginal Medical Service, as well as language specialists and local artist Toby Whitelaw, to bring together a project that aims to help our local Aboriginal community feel more welcome and confident in accessing health care services and to share Yuin culture throughout the community.
Above: At the launch of the Health Welcome Project. Gabrielle Powell Katungul Aboriginal Medical Service womens art group and Cheryl Davison
A terrific example of how the arts can have an impact on health outcomes. We hope to roll this project out in the Bega Valley and Snowy Monaro Shires in the future.
Above: Artwork by Cheryl Davison
Above: Artwork by the Art Group of Katungul Aboriginal Medical Service.
Above: Artwork by Natalie Bateman. Photo by Toby Whitelaw --- Article first appeared in South East ARTs
