Exploring Culture Through Art
Oyster Tribe proudly delivered our Create NSW Creative Nations program — Weaving Our Way to Wellbeing, hosted at our Dubbo office. This program was designed to bring together young people, Elders, and community members to explore culture through creativity, connection, and storytelling.
Guided by Artist Lee Wellman
The session was facilitated by Lee Wellman, a contemporary Aboriginal artist living on Wiradjuri Country in Dubbo. Born on the South Coast on Dharawal Country, Lee carries the stories and wisdom of her mother, grandmother, and uncles. Her art is inspired by her life experiences, Dreamtime stories, family, and the spirit of Country.
Lee generously shared her cultural knowledge with the group, beginning with a conversation about totems and their importance in connecting people to Country and identity. She guided the young participants in a painting workshop, encouraging them to express their own stories and connections through art.
Her approach is deeply grounded in yindyamarra — respect, gentleness, and honour. As she told the children, art is not only about what is created, but about walking softly with Country and spirit. She inspired them with the reminder that “life is like a blank canvas — create your own story and path.”
The Beauty of Stone Painting
A highlight of the day was Lee’s introduction of stone painting, a practice unfamiliar to many of the participants. She explained that the painted stones could be left in schoolyards or community spaces for others to find — a small but powerful way to share culture and spark curiosity among friends.
The children embraced the idea with joy, decorating their stones with colours and patterns that carried their totems, stories, and imagination. The activity became a joyful blend of tradition and creativity, connecting past practices with present-day expression.
Food, Fun, and Connection
The atmosphere was warm and joyful, filled with laughter, paint-smeared hands, and proud smiles as each participant showed off their creations. And, of course, no gathering is complete without food. Platters of fresh fruit, juice, and plenty of pizza kept energy high and gave everyone a chance to sit together, share stories, and bond beyond the workshop itself.
Voices of the Young Participants
The impact of the program was best captured in the words of the young people themselves. Indy shared that she loved the session because she made new friends while exploring her creativity. A few days later, William told Tara, our coordinator, that he had gone back to school and excitedly told all his classmates about the program — adding that he “can’t wait for the next one!”
These reflections show that beyond the art itself, the program fostered friendship, pride, and a ripple effect of cultural sharing that extended into schools and homes.
Looking Ahead: A Future Rooted in Culture
Weaving Our Way to Wellbeing is more than just an art workshop — it is about strengthening cultural identity, supporting wellbeing, and creating opportunities for young people to learn from and celebrate Aboriginal culture.
This program was made possible through the support of the Oyster Care Foundation, working alongside Oyster Tribe to nurture wellbeing, creativity, and cultural pride in our community.
This activity is supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW.
Weaving the Future Together
Oyster Tribe will continue to create opportunities for young people to connect with culture, art, and community. You can walk alongside us by attending future programs, supporting Aboriginal artists, and helping to share the stories that keep culture strong.
Want to learn more or get involved? Visit our program site to find out how you can support our cultural wellbeing initiatives. Together, we can continue weaving pathways of creativity, healing, and pride for future generations.
