Caring for Country through Creative Arts workshop at SECCA

About the Workshop

Join respected Djiringanj Elder, Aunty Ellen Mundy, and local artist Emma Stewart, a proud Bidjigal and Gweagal woman, for a powerful cultural and creative experience this school holidays at the South East Centre for Contemporary Art (SECCA).

These workshops are a FREE and rare opportunity designed for school-aged girls (10–19 years) focusing on creativity, cultural empowerment and leadership using Aboriginal mentoring practices.

Including yarning circles and collaborative art-making these workshops aim to build confidence, strengthen identity, and foster cultural belonging.

With priority booking offered for Aboriginal female identifying youth, participation is completely free and includes catering and take-home art materials to continue the creative journey.

🎨 What You’ll Do:

·         Learn an Acknowledgement of Country in Djiringanj language

·         Hear local Dreaming stories from a respected Elder

·         Create artworks inspired by these stories

·         Make natural ochre pigment paint

·         Share your creations in a Yarning Circle

🖤 About the Facilitators

Aunty Ellen Mundy is a respected Djiringanj Elder and cultural knowledge holder who brings wisdom, warmth, and storytelling building engagement, respect and understanding for Country.

Emma Stewart is the founder of Jirribitti Dreaming and co-owner of Marra Wanggan Cultural Services. Based in Merimbula, she’s a passionate cultural facilitator who has led many workshops in the Bega Valley in cultural education for Indigenous girls and women, focusing on empowering their voices and cultural identities.

⭐ What's included

To ensure a welcoming and inclusive experience for all participants:

·         Nutritious catering is provided to feed your creative energy

·         All materials are supplied, including take-home art kits for continued creativity

·         No ticket costs – this is a fully subsidized program

·         Priority booking is given to Aboriginal girls aged 10–19. Female non-First Nations youth in this age group also welcome.

FREE event, bookings essential!

All materials are provided. No prior art experience needed.

Session times: 10am-12pm or 1pm-3pm

Image: Ochre pigments. Stock image.

This project is supported through the NSW Office for Youth Spring Holiday Break program.