Artworks create culturally safe spaces at STARS

While non-Indigenous people typically view the light-coloured walls of a hospital as a sign of order and cleanliness, for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, stark walls can feel very alien and even frightening. If physical environments feel unwelcoming, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people may feel reluctant to initially attend hospital for appointments or leave before they are seen to.

To create a more culturally safe space, STARS recently installed artworks featuring a design by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artist, Elaine Chambers-Hegarty to the Level 3 entrance, carpark entrances and glass doors and windows throughout the facility.

For Ann Birch, Manager Assets and Infrastructure at STARS, the choice of artwork was important.

“STARS is a very contemporary facility and so in selecting the artwork we considered not only visibility and safety aspects but also what would suit the modern aesthetic of the building,” Ann said.

“We also consulted with the Metro North Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Leadership team and Metro North Design to ensure the artwork was compliant with the Metro North Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artwork protocols.

“A big thank you to the RBWH BEMS team for the production and installation of the artworks.

“I’m really excited to see the finished product and hope it assists more people and their families to feel comfortable in STARS.”

STARS Cultural Capability Officer Henry Nona has welcomed the artwork installation.

“The inclusion of the Acknowledgement to Country and Statement of Commitment towards Health Equity at the Level 3 entrance, for example, signals to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people that the health service is seeking to provide care that is more personally and culturally safe,” Henry said.

“Hopefully by creating a more welcoming environment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their families they will feel a sense of belonging—that STARS is a place where they will be respected, listened to and receive high-quality care.

“Elaine Chambers-Hegarty’s artwork was specifically created for STARS and shows the journey one needs to go on for a successful recovery, including community connection and closeness.”

The new artwork installations are in addition to an existing Australian Unity STARS art collection, of which over 60 per cent is by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists.

You can read more about the Australian Unity STARS art collection here.