In celebration of Harmony Week and International Women’s Day, the Creative Health Hub is showcasing two new exhibitions that will be on display in our hospitals throughout March.?
International Women’s Day Exhibition at Gold Coast University Hospital??
International Women’s Day is observed on 8 March this year under the theme “For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.”?This year's theme calls for action that can unlock equal rights, power and opportunities for all and a feminist future where no one is left behind
Continuing their long-standing collaboration, the Creative Health Hub has partnered with (Gold Coast Multicultural Arts Group Inc.) to present works from nine female-identifying artists from diverse backgrounds. The exhibit will feature 15 pieces across mixed media, painting, and sculpture.
The collection celebrates the achievements, resilience, and creativity of women from the Gold Coast’s diverse community, highlighting powerful narratives that both empower and reflect a rich cultural heritage.?
You can see the exhibition on display in the Gold Coast University Hospital foyer from 6 March.?
??
Harmony Week’s “Bring a Plate” Exhibition at Robina Hospital?
observed this year from 17 - 23 March, is a national celebration of Australian multiculturalism, promoting inclusiveness, respect and a sense of belonging for all Australians.
To celebrate Harmony Week, the Bring a Plate exhibition will be on display at Robina Hospital from 14 March. Presented in partnership with the , this exhibit explores the connection between food, culture, and community wellbeing.
Featuring 15 oil paintings on round wooden boards – each depicting plates of international cuisine –the collection underscores the rich cultural diversity of the Gold Coast community and the role of food in fostering a sense of belonging and identity.?
Artist Elena Valerie from the GC Art Collective explains the exhibition’s inspiration.
“Both food and art tantalise our senses and take us on magical journeys. Through our Bring a Plate exhibition, we aim to share and celebrate different cultures, reflecting the diverse backgrounds of both our artists and the wider community.”?
Research indicates that food plays a crucial role in expressing cultural identity and supporting mental wellbeing. The preparation, sharing, and consumption of traditional foods contribute to an individual's sense of self and community connection. The Bring a Plate series also carries a deeper message about generosity and community.
The empty plate motif included in the collection serves as a reminder of those who may not have the means to bring a plate to share, reinforcing the values of kindness and inclusivity.?
Laura Strange, Creative Health Principal Project Officer, highlighted the importance of representing diversity in public spaces like hospitals.
“Presenting artworks created by women and multicultural content in hospitals helps our spaces to feel more inclusive and welcoming for patients, visitors and staff,” she said.
“When people see their community and culture reflected in the artwork around them, it promotes a sense of belonging and cultural safety, which is vital in a healthcare setting.”?
星空体育’s Creative Health Hub integrates arts into healthcare settings to improve patient and staff wellbeing. For more information about the Creative Health Hub and upcoming exhibitions, visit the Creative Health Hub?web page.?
Pictured: The collection of works from the "Bring a Plate" exhibition