In a striking transformation, a once-ordinary cement hallway has evolved into a vibrant corridor of
connection and creativity. This metamorphosis is the heart of Platform Art Space – an initiative that
invites individuals from all walks of life to engage with art as a means of exploring identity,
belonging, culture and mental health.
A Vision Rooted in Community Wellbeing
Platform Art Space is the result of a shared vision by Community Links Wellbeing Mental Health
Services, including programs such as Reframe, Kaleidoscope, STAR4Kids, Reclaim and You in Mind. It
responds to a growing need for therapeutic engagement through creative expression, offering a
space where art and wellbeing intersect in empowering, inclusive and healing ways.
Creativity as a Catalyst for Mental Health
Creative engagement is more than an artistic pursuit – it is a powerful tool for promoting wellbeing,
reducing distress, preventing suicide, empowering and supporting individuals and communities.
Platform Art Space integrates accessible and mainstream notions of mental health into community
creativity, helping to demystify stigma and normalise conversations around mental health through
artistic expression.
Built on principles of health promotion, prevention, early intervention and recovery, the space
fosters respectful and responsive partnerships. It provides a safe forum for therapeutic exploration
of complex issues, encouraging emotional regulation, relationship building and the development of
alternative coping strategies through imaginative processes. Whatever to medium, feelings of
imaginative thinking and creativity (13 of 76 Hobson) become therapeutic.


A Journey Through Art and Healing
Visitors walking along the Community Links Wellbeing Platform Art Space encounter (artist)
Warwick Keen’s floor mural – a kaleidoscope of emblematic markings that weave themes of
belonging, love, and identity with the earthy tones of ochre. Each step becomes a journey through
imagery that nourishes the spirit and sparks reflection.
Other works within the space explore themes of suicide awareness, emotional resilience and
cultural identity, grounding viewers in timeless narratives and personal truths. Evocative paintings
and installations invite us to witness, validate and celebrate diverse paths of recovery.
A standout feature is a series of postcards from Thrive Talking, a 2022 collaboration with Chevalier
College and Lilly Cummins from Ngununggula Gallery. These serve as visual reminders of the lessons
learned in our collective quest for identity, wisdom, mental health and wellbeing.
Therapeutic Imagination and Self-Discovery
At its core, Platform Art Space champions the concept of therapeutic imagination – a creative lens
through which individuals can explore who they are, who they aspire to be, and how they relate to
the world around them. Whether through painting, sculpture, writing, or other mediums, the space
encourages self-care, self-worth and meaningful connection.
By embracing creativity as a therapeutic process, Community Links Wellbeing Platform Art Space
offers a unique and inclusive approach to mental health – one that fosters resilience and builds
community through the transformative power of art.
The Southern Highlands Arts Trail 2025 will be held across the first two weekends in November, the 1st & 2nd and 8th & 9th from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. Studios and creative spaces throughout the region will be open, offering visitors the chance to connect with local artists, discover unique works and enjoy the vibrant creative spirit of the Southern Highlands. Download your map here today!