Living with a terminal illness and grief can feel like living in a bubble. Removed from the world’s colour of activity. An invisible barrier that can offer protection but can also keep emotion, conversation, support and even love from being shared. Offering a hand. Connecting through touch. Just holding hands, be it clinging tightly by finger tips or gently held can provide support and care with a wrapping of light, colour and warmth. A connection to community. Arms are positioned to show either is able to support the other and folds of the dress represent the wrinkles of life.

In the midst of the craziness that is life,there is always an element of calm,which is essential to deal with everyday problems.That is especially the case with palliative care.

It is wonderful to live in our society which has systems in place to support our journey from sickness to health. THE CALL is made to health professionals for diagnosis, hospital treatments and hopefully recovery. Sadly recovery may not be lasting or possible and we die. THE CALL is then made to the funeral industry. Without this vital connection to the practical, emotional and spiritual support of the community our needs would go unmet and our suffering compounded. THE CALL to connect with the community makes all the difference.

We’re in an age where connection in community weaves face-to-face contact with digital networking. The work, based off a selfie taken while Grandfather was dying, blends the traditional and digital, capturing this previous generation within a contemporary technological communication practice. It reflects the strong ties my Grandfather nurtured with others, and holds him in the present and future for family, friends and community. The old and the young, both important parts of community, are side-by-side and reflect compassion, love and support in death. I painted at my final year in ANU art school.

My mother's retirement village has a family lunch every month - and this lovely Croatian lady, Maria, always sits alone, facing the wall. I asked the staff if she'd join us but they said the window light is too bright and she prefers this table. She says a prayer, eats her meal and leaves. But I love that Maria joins the family lunch every month, although she could eat in her room - she chooses company and she's included, even when she faces the wall. We are different, with different needs but we all desire and deserve connection with others.

Being a full time carer of a person with Alzheimer's Disease, a terminal illness, is a painful, isolating and lonely journey. It takes one person to make a difference. Carmel, the Pastoral Associate at the aged residence, where my friend goes for respite, is a familiar, welcoming, reassuring face. Also a personal friend, away from work, she is always fully present to me with her listening heart.. We feel gifted by this seamless support and contentedness through both community and residential care. I In this portrait I have tried to capture the compassion and gentle wisdom of Carmels beautiful personality.