“I want South Australia to take the lead in creating a place that allows all of us to change the story on family violence,” said Helen Oxenham (OAM).
After 8 long years, the campaign initiated by Helen to create a public art space to combat family violence is facing its’ final approval hurdle at the Adelaide City Council meeting.
“I want to see The Place of Courage completed,” said Helen. “It has been a long journey to get here.” Helen is 93 years old and is best known for establishing South Australia’s first domestic violence women’s shelter in Christies Beach.
The Place of Courage is a ground-breaking and inclusive public artwork in Tulya Wardli/Bonython Park that seeks to publicly acknowledge the devastating effects of domestic and family violence within our communities. It is a space dedicated to remembrance, healing, education, prevention, and community empowerment.
The project will create Australia’s first ever contemporary, commemorative public artwork that raises awareness of the impact of family and domestic violence. As the first of its kind, the Place of Courage will reflect Adelaide’s leading role in the arts and its recognised status as a UNESCO Creative City. It will also provide key leadership for councils across Australia. Local council areas such as Charles Sturt, Murray Bridge, Port Adelaide, and the City of Onkaparinga have already implemented ‘Ripple’ memorials that amplify the impact of the Place of Courage.
Spirit of Woman (“SOW”) is seeking support from the Adelaide City Council to commence phase 1. This phase consists of the central two figures of a woman and her dog, including language, informal seating, native plantings, and an explanatory plaque. The lead artist is Clancy Warner.
“We hope to get the green light to commence building The Place of Courage,” said Heather Oxenham. “The proposed public artwork is a manifestation of the enormous community support gathered over 8 years.”
“We ask that supporters come to the council meeting on Tuesday to show their support,” said Heather.