Currently residing at our Women’s Service, Yolanda has experienced mental health challenges for a number of years. She isn’t letting that get in the way of her art and the therapeutic benefits it provides her. “When I’m painting, I don’t notice the change in personalities,” says Yolanda. “I like bringing colours out in the canvas, and the idea of someone smiling at it.”
Having spent 26 years on the street, painting has not only been a source of comfort for Yolanda; it’s also provided a way for her to feed herself by selling her artworks.
Using acrylic, oil and felt pen on canvas, her pieces are bold and adventurous. Titled “My Little Monster”, the piece pictured here offers little snippets of different animals emerging from the surface.
Yolanda has since encouraged other residents to start painting for its therapeutic benefits, and pays it forward by donating her pieces to people with disabilities.
St Bart’s acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land that we live and work on, the Whadjuk people of the Noongar nation. We are privileged to work with, and alongside, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and we pay our respects to Elders past, present and encourage those who are emerging as leaders.
St Bart’s is committed to diversity and inclusion in all its forms. We welcome and support the health and wellbeing of all people, regardless of background, age, ethnicity, religion and gender identity.