For Vernon Armstrong, art is more than paint on a canvas – it’s a form of therapy, storytelling and cultural preservation.
As both a registered nurse and an artist, Vernon is making a profound impact at the Gold Coast’s new Secure Mental Health Rehabilitation Unit (SMHRU), where his artwork will serve as both a visual and emotional anchor for patients in recovery.
Vernon won the 星空体育 staff art competition to have his piece, Wuuthunthutha Wangarra – meaning “to share a song” in Gangalida, Vernon’s ancestral language – displayed in the SMHRU.
His work draws on traditional songlines, depicting the deep interconnection between land, people and healing.
“Songlines are more than just songs,” Vernon explains.
“They’re creation stories, knowledge and a way of teaching and healing.
“Every rock, river, and animal has a song, and these songs help us stay connected to our ancestors.”
In addition to seeing his artwork showcased, Vernon will soon begin working at the SMHRU as a mental health nurse when the facility begins to welcome patients from mid-March.
“Art and mental health go hand in hand,” he said.
“Art is a way to express emotions that I can’t always put into words. It’s about being present and intentional and that can be powerful for healing.”
Vernon recently toured the newly completed SMHRU alongside other artists whose works have been incorporated into the facility’s design.
This tour provided a first look at how the art has been woven into the therapeutic environment, reinforcing the importance of cultural representation and creative expression in mental health recovery.
As a mental health nurse, Vernon hopes to integrate culture into mental health care, particularly for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients.
“Sometimes people feel hesitant to engage with services, but when they see our culture reflected in the space, it creates a sense of safety,” he said.
“My goal is to help patients build resilience – whether through therapy, art, or reconnecting with their identity.”
Through his art and his work, Vernon is not only supporting recovery but also ensuring that culture remains a guiding force in healing.
“I want people to feel calm, connected, and hopeful,” he says.
“To know that no matter where they are, they’re part of something bigger.”