In a recent creative workshop that bridged art, culture and storytelling, students from Deadly Arts | The Arts Unit helped bring to life a powerful installation for The Children’s Hospital at Westmead to honour Burramattagal Country and welcome every family who walks through its doors. 

At the entrance to the hospital’s new Wattle Building, a lighting installation by Dharawal / Yuin artist Alison Page will soon be installed. Alison worked in consultation with SCHN Aboriginal Health and the CHW Aboriginal Advisory Group, which was made up of Dharug artists and Elders, including Dharug Elder Uncle Colin Locke - to bring a story of Country and community to life. 

The installation titled Come Closer, draws inspiration from the ancient Sydney Blue Gum High Forest that once covered Burramattagal Country. These forests sheltered birds, bats, and owls and were cared for by the Burramattagal for thousands of years.  

The installation features colourful, textured light pods that represent special spirits protecting the forests. The lights brighten as people approach, inviting visitors to come closer and discover the hand-painted ceramic forest seeds inside.  

“The seeds show the flora of the Sydney Blue Gum High Forest, and through them, we tell a story of Country, care, and connection,” Alison said. 

Facilitated by Arts & Cultural Exchange - ACE, students at Nepean Creative Arts School recently painted the seedlings with Alison and Uncle Colin and Jamie Eastwood.  

“It’s going to be fantastic,” Uncle Colin said. “The blue gums have been almost wiped out since colonisation, and this project shows the importance of these woodlands and their connection to the Dharug people.” 

Aboriginal Education Team Leader at the school, Glen Turner highlighted the impact for students and hospital patients. 

“Our students realised their artwork isn’t just important locally. It’s significant beyond that,” he said. “Having it in a hospital creates a culturally safe, welcoming space for everyone.” 

The students were equally enthusiastic. 

Ella, 17 (Dharug and Wiradjuri) reflected, “When it lights up, kids will feel special, heard and seen. It brings a sense of light into their life.” 

April, 15, said, “Going into a hospital can be scary. Seeing artwork on the walls tells kids it’s going to be okay.”  

Tahnee, 15, added, “Hospitals can feel big and frightening. Something playful, with lights, can bring joy to their day.”  

The new hospital building is set to open in early 2026. This art project forms part of Sydney Children’s Hospital’s Network’s ‘Arts, Play, Discovery Strategy’ - reimagining the role of art in healthcare. The strategy ensures art and play are central to the patient experience.