The journeys of healing, hope and self-discovery experienced by women recovering from domestic, family and sexual violence will be shared with the community through a month-long exhibition at the Shellharbour Civic Centre.
Opening on Monday, August 3, the We Are exhibition features paintings, ceramics, stitching and mixed-media artworks created by women participating in programs at the Illawarra Women’s Trauma Recovery Centre.
Created through the Centre’s therapeutic Clay Group, Stitching Circle and Art Group, each piece tells a deeply personal story of resilience, identity and recovery, while demonstrating the role creativity can play in trauma healing.
Among the exhibiting artists is Karen, whose painting explores hope and comfort.
“I wanted to paint a moment of complete peace,” Karen said.
“Sitting beneath the stars with the people and animals we love reminds us that we’re never truly alone. For me, it’s a picture of hope, comfort and belonging, and a reminder that healing is often found in the connections we share with others.”
Fellow artist Tammy said her work was part of her recovery journey.
“Creating this artwork taught me to slow down and focus on one small step at a time,” Tammy said.
“Placing each gem by hand became a calming and mindful process. It reminded me that healing is built through patience, perseverance and care, and that something beautiful can emerge from taking the time to keep going.”
Chief Executive Officer Elise Phillips said the exhibition celebrated not only the women behind the artworks, but the possibilities that exist when women are given the right support.
“Recovery is not linear, but it is possible when women have access to safe spaces, connection and trauma-informed support,” Ms Phillips said.
“By sharing these artworks with the wider community, we’re celebrating the courage and creativity of the women who created them while helping build greater understanding of recovery after domestic, family and sexual violence.”
Throughout August, the Civic Centre will also host a series of facilitator-led workshops in clay and visual art, giving community members the opportunity to experience the creative practices used within the Centre’s trauma recovery programs.
The We Are exhibition runs at the Shellharbour Civic Centre from August 3 to August 28. Entry is free.
You can see the exhibits here.
You can book into the following workshops via Shellharbour Civic Centre:
Clay Workshop
Wednesday 26 August | 10am – 12pm
Facilitated by Zeynep Testoni from South Coast Ceramics, this hands-on workshop introduces participants to the calming and creative process of working with clay.
Drawing Workshop
Thursday 27 August | 10am – 12pm
Facilitated by Anthea Da Silva, this workshop welcomes beginners through to experienced artists.