NAIDOC Week: Artist donates 'Healing Hands'

Indigenous artist Darleen Cooper has donated a "deeply personal" portrayal of her journey back to health at Sydney Adventist Hospital as part of NAIDOC Week 2023 celebrations.

Ms Cooper was a patient at New South Wales' largest private hospital in 2022, when she required surgery.

She presented her painting, titled 'Healing Hands, My Journey', at a leadership meeting where she spoke of her desire to give back to the hospital and its people who had cared for her.

"My original thought was to donate one that I had at home, but after looking at the ones I had at home, I knew I had to create something new and unique," she said.

The painting is centred on four hands, surrounded by the Rainbow Serpent – the great life-giver, and protector of water – and imagery reflecting the many people who have impacted the artist's journey.

It depicts her country, her many deep communities, and her family – parents, children, grandchildren, siblings, aunties, uncles, and cousins.

"Darleen is obviously a gifted artist, and we look forward to displaying this artwork to the benefit of patients, visitors, and staff," said Brett Goods, CEO of the hospital's operator, Adventist HealthCare.

This year's theme for NAIDOC Week (Saturday 2-9 July) was 'For Our Elders', recognising the role they have played and continue to play in Indigenous communities and families, as cultural knowledge-holders, teachers and sources of inspiration.

Pastor Richie Reid kicked off celebrations at Sydney Adventist Hospital by sharing an acknowledgement of country with all staff.

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