Indigenous artist draws attention to mental health and wellbeing
Wudarabin, who grew up in Cooktown, started her art journey at a young age, drawing on her ancestral roots to influence her designs.
Now only 16-years-old, Wudarabin has made significant contributions to her community and the arts through her paintings.
In 2020, after winning an Indigenous Creative Art Competition staged by the RFDS (Queensland Section) Far North Mental Health and Wellbeing team, in partnership with the Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Foundation, Wudarabin’s art was featured on the Flying Doctor’s first Indigenous uniform in Queensland.
Incorporating Indigenous artwork into staff uniforms has, and continues to, strengthen established connections with communities and improve engagement with our mental health programs.
Titled Our Ancestors, Our Connection, Wudarabin’s piece speaks to the relationship Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have with others and the Country around them.
The artwork’s intricate details represent land animals, ocean life, the rainforest and Wudarabin’s ancestors, including her late mother.
Finding solace in the act of painting, Wudarabin says she used her art to assist in the grieving process, highlighting the value of creativity to support mental health and wellbeing.
The new uniforms have been so well received that they are now worn with great pride by RFDS staff from all teams across the state.
Wudarabin’s artwork was also featured on the Flying Doctor’s 2020/21 annual and financial report covers.
