Though death can be perceived as a time of darkness, through the connection of community, the experience can be one of beauty and light. The hands represent the many facets that a community brings to support an individuals final journey. The butterfly symbolises the transition from this life.

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.

Tasha our dog was dying and we took her to a last walk on the beach. It connected us with many walking people asking about Tasha, why was she in a bag? and we talked about death and dying with many, it was very special...

Pink Callistemon is an artwork that I drew for my dying mother whilst she was in Pallative care. The artwork is reflective of the laughter, joy and abundance of relationship that mum and I shared together. Native flowers are my mothers favourite flora as they are hardy, beautiful, easily accessible and can be grown within most communities around Australia. The callistemon variety colour range is representative of the diverse communities which are throughout Australia. Native plants can connect our communities on a small scale though conversation commonalities. Pink Callistemon meaning; flowers are a soul in full flight and blossom.

My artwork is a negative-space image demonstrating the bonded connection between a dedicated palliative carer and the terminally ill, here depicted as an infant child. The logo on the arm could be modified to carry the Palliative Care Australia logo.

This artwork was inspired by a photo I saw in the news when a local man died playing football. It made me again see how we are united as a community by life events, none more so than death. When a loved one dies, you become a member of an unfortunate club that binds its members with an invisible, yet powerful thread. It creates a sense of togetherness and community no matter the circumstances. My mum died 3 years ago, it's tragedies like this that remind me and bind me, and while there's sadness, there is also love and understanding.