AWARDED TO
Eloise Reddy 91porn (Assoc.)
PROJECT
Artidote: The Public Art of Healing
This university thesis explores the link between the arts and mental wellbeing in the built environment. The project investigates how local government can facilitate a new type of 'trauma-informed public art' to support community healing following a collective tragedy.
The project combines analysis of international literature, comparative case studies, cultural policy contexts, and professional perspectives. It weaves together disciplines that would typically not be in dialogue, forging collaboration between planning, the arts, and healthcare. The research establishes three guiding principles – community participation, site responsiveness, and transdisciplinary collaboration.
The Judges decision was unanimous, and they were impressed by the quality and originality of this work. The topic is unique and the research processes and outcomes are exemplary. It is clear the research has been well received through journal publishing and presentations at conferences. Eloise’s findings and recommendations are readily transferrable across local governments areas and amongst practitioners. The work shows wisdom and skill well beyond the author’s years.