Project
At the invitation of the Kalumburu community, I co-developed and delivered a series of creative holiday workshops alongside Lynnette Lounsbury in partnership with Community Focus National. The program provided daily arts and craft activities designed to support children’s safety, creative development, self-expression, and a sense of achievement.

Process
The workshops were co-designed with children and community representatives, with guidance from local Elders. Activities ranged from craftmaking to contemporary visual arts, balancing guided instruction with open-ended creative exploration. When supplies were exhausted due to the unexpectedly high level of participation, the program adapted by incorporating land-based materials identified by the children themselves. This flexible approach ensured the workshops remained community-led and responsive to local circumstances.

Outcomes
The workshops engaged approximately 80 of the community’s 100 children, far exceeding initial expectations. Morning and afternoon sessions were introduced to accommodate demand. Most children returned for multiple workshops, taking pride in their creations and developing relationships with us, and creating daily connection with more of their peers, and other community members. Several older children also stepped into informal leadership roles, and helping to shape activities.

Ongoing
This project prompted me to return to the community where I grew up and reconnect with my own place and community soon afterwards. It also reinforced the importance of listening-led practice, flexibility, and working with communities rather than for them. These lessons continue to inform my approach to rural arts and community development work.