Reconciliation Action Plan
Mental Health Australia's vision for reconciliation is a nation that delivers equitable mental health and social and emotional wellbeing outcomes and experiences for all people in Australia. A united country with mentally healthy people and mentally healthy communities, where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples no longer experience higher rates of mental ill-health and suicide than non-Indigenous Australians.
To create an art piece is one thing, but to create an art piece that can inspire and change someone's life journey is even more special.
About the Artist
Kristie Peters is a proud Wiradjuri Artist, Graphic and Fashion Designer and the recipient of ACT NAIDOC Artist Of The Year 2021 and All First Nations Creative Fashion Designer 2024 Kristie is the founder of Yarrudhamarra Creations and Blaklabel Dreaming) and currently lives in Canberra with her partner and 9 Beautiful boys. She prides herself working with community, where she has been very quickly recognized and well known for her distinctive styles and powerful artworks including her indigenous murals. Kristie see’s her art as a platform which speaks from the heart to empower and breakdown barriers.
Meaning behind the artwork - Together we Thrive
This artwork encapsulates Mental Health Australia’s commitment to nurturing a supportive community where every voice is
heard, every story is valued, and every individual is empowered to seek help and thrive.
The U shapes in the artwork represent the diverse community of people who come together to support one another. Each U
shape reflects the unique experiences and stories of those who have faced mental health challenges, emphasizing the
importance of connection and understanding.
The concentric circles signify meeting places, a safe space where individuals can gather, share their thoughts, and support
each other. This symbolizes the importance of community and open dialogue in fostering mental health awareness and
healing.
The central circle surrounded by U shapes represents the heart of the community, a focal point of care and support. It signifies
the nurturing environment where individuals find comfort and strength in unity, that together we can overcome challenges.
The lines that travel and connect various meeting places represent the pathways of communication and support that exist
within the community. They symbolize the interconnectedness of various support networks, highlighting how individuals can
reach out and connect with different resources and people on their mental health journey.
The flannel flowers represent resilience and hope. These flowers, known for their ability to thrive in challenging conditions,
symbolize the strength of individuals facing mental health struggles. They remind us that, like the flowers, we can flourish even
in adversity, and that beauty can emerge from difficult experiences.
The background featuring additional meeting places serves as a reminder of the broader community and the various support
systems available. It emphasizes that mental health support is not confined to one space but is woven throughout our lives,
encouraging individuals to seek help and connection wherever they may find it.
The U shapes that encircle the meeting places and connect to the travelling lines reinforce the idea of community and shared
journeys. They symbolize the collective effort to support one another, that every individual plays a vital role in creating a
network of care, understanding, and hope.