Yamaji Art Exhibition at St John of God Hospital Geraldton helps patients connect with community and sky

Twelve artists from Yamaji barna and Noongar boodja nations came together to show their connection to the sky during a successful Yamaji Art exhibition opening night at St John of God Geraldton Hospital. More than 19 artworks based on the theme Together, Walking Beneath the Night Sky are displayed in the main foyer of the hospital for patients and guests to admire. Artists shared stories of their culture, childhood memories, time on country and how their individual belief systems all share the common thread of being connected to the night sky at the opening night on November 17. Yamaji Art arts development officer and emerging curator Lily-mae Kerley spoke about her experience coordinating, curating and installing her first exhibition and said she looked forward to building her skills through the WA Museum’s Emerging Curators program in 2024. Yamaji Art manager Roni Kerley said the artwork highlighted the artists’ connection to the night sky. “It is always a pleasure celebrating our own individual connection to country and culture through art, but these works also show how we are all connected in some way through a common thread of the night sky,” she said. St John of God Geraldton Hospital CEO Phillip Balmer said the hospital was grateful to show local Yamaji artwork and the artists’ connection to the night sky. “Our goal irrespective of circumstances is to bring healing hope, dignity and happiness to every patient, and family/friend as they traverse life’s journey whether in birth, treatment or death,” he said. “It is a universal human trait that we want to feel connected to people, communities, and the world in which we live in. “As part of this connection with our local communities we have ongoing exhibitions with local artists so they can connect with the art and artists and come to a more beautiful place to receive care.” Mr Balmer urged visitors to view the exhibition on display in the main foyer. The exhibition will be on display at until Saturday, December 16.