The Inside/Out: Secure Welfare Body Map exhibition was officially opened at a gala event on 29 November.

Singer-songwriter Sime Nugent kicked off the night with his unique and soulful sound before an incredible speech by Dr Caroline Taylor. Dr Taylor shared her personal history as a victim/survivor and discussed the ongoing contributions she is making to help other victim/survivors of physical and sexual assault negotiate the legal system, build self esteem and understand trauma's impacts and healing.

Following Dr Taylor's inspirational speech, girls from the Secure Welfare program courageously spoke about their own experiences. The girls praised the staff of Secure Welfare for their support and thanked art therapist Rebekah Oppenheim, who coordinated the exhibition. They said that participating in the art therapy program had been an important part of helping them to work through their experiences.

The Inside/Out Exhibition features artworks which trace the private, cultural and gendered dimensions of violence against women and children through full-body silhouettes of the artists. All artworks on display have been created by children, aged 10 to 17, as part of the Secure Welfare Unit's art therapy program.

You can arrange a viewing of the Inside/Out Exhibition weekdays, 9.00am to 5.00pm by contacting the Centre.