As part of its commitment to being a leading carer organisation in which carers feel recognised, supported and included, Carers NSW has commissioned a digital artwork in collaboration with a NSW-based Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artist, which will be used across Carers NSW digital, website and printed assets.
Carers NSW is proud to work alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander carers and artists, and to share stories that highlight the strength, diversity and cultural significance of caring within Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Caring on Country
This artwork explores the impact and relationship carers create and have in society. Carers are friends and family members, and this artwork – using bright colours and symbols of community and family – celebrates the strength of carers and the connection between carer and community. The artwork uses and prints and footprints to show that it’s a journey that takes all helping hands to guide and protect our loved ones. Caring and looking after the vulnerable and our loved ones is a key aspect in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture. Carers are important figures in our society and should be praised and celebrated.
About the Artist
Courtney Garstang is a proud young Barkindji woman on her mother’s side, currently living on Darkinjung land on the Central Coast, NSW. Raised by her non-Indigenous father, she was always encouraged to explore her Aboriginal heritage and develop her artistic talents. His support and her creativity have allowed Courtney to express her culture and who she is as a person through art.
Through Indigenous programs and learning about the land through traditional leaders and Elders, Courtney’s love for her culture has intensified and continues to grow. It wasn’t until year 12 that she started exploring more of Indigenous art and formed a passion for it. Through her exploration she has created artworks that she is incredibly proud of. Courtney has had the privilege of sharing and spreading culture across the country.