This week marks National NAIDOC Week (7-14 July 2024), an opportunity for all Australians to learn about First Nations cultures and histories, and participate in celebrations of the oldest, continuous living cultures on earth.
During NAIDOC Week, we are honoured to share an update on our PCV Artwork Commissions, part of the Comprehensive Palliative Care in Aged Care Measure.
Earlier this year PCV sought to commission Victorian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander artists to create two distinct artworks to be used in digital and printed resources across Victoria.
Artists were invited to submit an expression of interest for the artwork commission. Following the expression of interest period, the successful artists were selected by a panel of the project Steering Group members, PCV CEO and Board Chair, from a de-identified shortlist.
PCV has now received the first commissioned piece, a vibrant artwork (see below) painted by Elli Jackson, a Wurundjeri woman.
Elli Jackson - Artist Profile
Born and raised on Dja Dja Wurrung country, Elli is married to a Kamilaroi man with three Wurundjeri/Kamilaroi children. Elli has always connected to culture through community and creative outlets – particularly painting.
Elli has worked in finance since she was 19, predominantly at Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations. This is her first professionally commissioned piece as up until now she has painted for family and friends, developing her skills and artistic style.
‘I hope you enjoy my piece and I look forward to seeing where this journey takes me’ – Elli Jackson
Elli was inspired to put in a submission to complete this work through her own experiences of end-of-life care with a family member. Experiencing the difference Culturally Safe caring staff can make to the patient and their loved ones is something that she held with her while creating this painting.
With this painting, Elli wanted to tell the story of collaboration between community services, committee members, staff members and families that is required to bring the Project to life and to make possible better end-of-life care for her community. Care that is led by family, with dignity and compassion.
Utilising bright pastel colours to bring vibrancy to the work, Elli has represented the contrast that proper end-of-life care can make to the transition to the Dreaming.
‘I have included the gum leaves as eucalyptus leaves are connected to our spiritual health practices, medicinal use, and of course in smoking ceremonies for cleansing and to encourage good health and safe passage.’ – Elli Jackson
.png)
Artwork by Elli Jackson (Commissioned by Palliative Care Victoria), 2024
Key
- Main river – ideas, information, consultation from all the waterholes
- Main/large waterholes – Culmination of the project
- Waterholes – Committees/community groups
- Arches – Committee, staff and community members who have worked on the project
- Gum leaves – Spiritual and medical healing, safe passage, cleansing
- Pink circles – Patients and family accessing palliative services