Orygen’s headspace centre at Werribee recently held its fourth NinjaArt exhibition, bringing together young people, their families and friends to showcase current works from the art therapy group.
The NinjaArt program is supported by The James Marcon Foundation and is held each week at headspace Werribee to create a supportive and stimulating environment that allows young people to explore their creativity and establish friendships and connections.
Orygen’s program manager of primary clinical services, Brendan Pawsey, said he was thrilled by the continuing success of the Ninja Art program. “A number of the young people have said that NinjaArt was the most important thing they did each week,” Mr Pawsey said.
“I am also tremendously grateful for the enthusiasm that our staff members bring to the program.”
A feature of this year’s NinjaArt exhibition was a large and spectacular mural of a pair of angel wings that comprised of hundreds of paper feathers individually designed and decorated by young people.
“The wings are incredible, they are large and bright and symbolic of many things.” Mr Pawsey said.
Connor, who is a former participant of the NinjaArt program and now a co-facilitator, said taking part in the program gave him the opportunity to express himself artistically and gave him space that allowed him to build his confidence and interpersonal skills.
“Everyone was so welcoming of me and encouraging of each other. The whole session was beautiful, it has felt like a safe haven to me and a home away from home,” Connor said.
Both Connor and Mr Pawsey want to express their gratitude and thank the Marcon Foundation for the continued commitment to the program.
“It’s amazing to have such supportive members of the community giving so generously to young people,” Mr Pawsey said. “It supports and affirms the significant contributions of the young people, mentors, facilitators and staff who work so hard to make this program happen.”