Wardandi artwork provides connection to country at Bunbury outpatient facility
Artists Lera Bennell, Janine Williams, Dellas Bennell, Rhona Wallam, Rhonda Norman and Dawn Alone.
Patients attending WA Country Health Service’s outpatient and ambulatory facility in Bunbury, will be welcomed by an array of colourful art designed by local Wardandi people.
The artwork is a collaboration with the South West Aboriginal Reference Group to create hand drawn and painted pieces depicting the three waters surrounding Bunbury – Koombana Bay, Indian Ocean and Leschenault Inlet – and local sea animals.
Displayed throughout the facility, as well as digitally transferred to the front windows of the building, the works aim to bring a welcoming sense of connection for all patients.
Bunbury Regional Hospital Director Jeff Calver described the art installation as a collaborative community project, involving six local Aboriginal artists.
“Through art, our patients, their carers and loved ones can feel a sense of calm and belonging as they navigate their healthcare journey,” he said.
“By tapping into the creativity and culture of our local Aboriginal community, we’re able to ensure our facility is culturally safe and welcoming for all our patients.
“The theme, colour and name of the facility, Mamang, reflects a local story about taking a man on a journey in a large whale which transports him west of his home country where his life is changed forever. It ties into what Ambulatory Care services aims to achieve – getting patients back to good health and in their homes.”
Mamang was relocated from the grounds of Bunbury Regional Hospital to the Homemaker Centre in 2022 as part of the Bunbury Regional Hospital redevelopment project.