Ripples Across SA
Gawler
On September 7th 2023, about thirty people gathered in the rain for the launch of the “Remembering Courageous Women Mosaic Mural” in Gawler Pocket Park on Whitelaw Tce. Consisting of six colourful panels, this inspiring art work was designed to provide the Gawler community with a place to contemplate the toll of domestic violence, as well as show victims that they are not alone. As Mayor Karen Redman stated on the day, “You just have to touch one woman. One woman, and that can make a huge difference in their life. Because if they see ‘no to family violence’, then they feel welcome.”
Created and designed by artist Sandra Sullivan, with assistance from Indigenous artists Kira and Codi Buckskin, the mural was two years in the making. Speaking of the concept behind her work, Sandra said:
“I wanted to remember and support those who have been affected by the horror of domestic and family violence. This mural was always going to be about highlighting the plight of women through the centuries, women both young and old, as well as their families.”
Every panel features a variety of flowers, included for their ability to represent the feminine, as well as peace. Mental health advocates have long advised that immersion in nature has a calming effect, and Sandra was mindful of this, wanting her mural to be uplifting in spite of its heavy subject matter. She also wanted minority groups to feel supported and remembered, with several panels featuring a rainbow for the LGBTIQ+ community. Another panel features a woman in a wheelchair patting a dog. She is representative of the disabled community, and the dog reminds us that family pets are often used and abused in DV situations.
“Remembering Courageous Women Mosaic Mural” was a joint venture of the Town of Gawler Council, Gawler Zonta Club, Villawood Properties, Lions Club of Gawler, White Ribbon, Gawler Domestic Violence Unit and Spirit of Woman. This commemorative space will provide a place for survivors to feel welcome and share stories, in order to heal and prevent ongoing violence.
If you’re interested in bringing a ‘Ripple’ to your local Council area, please contact us.
Email: helen@spiritofwoman.com.au
Phone: 0419 926 456