Creative input for permanent memorial for survivors of sexual assault in Ballarat

A commitment from the Ballarat community to develop a public art memorial to acknowledge survivors of sexual assault, has moved a step closer.

The Continuous Voices Arts Project was launched in 2019 out of respect for anyone who has suffered from sexual abuse in the city, both directly and indirectly, whether in an institution, family, or elsewhere.

Now, with the healing hands of the Ballarat community, five talented artists will lead a series of workshops from February 2021 to help determine the most appropriate design and location for this special tribute.

The work that community members and survivors make during these workshops as well as online participation and feedback, will form the creative ideas for a permanent memorial space in Ballarat.  Anyone impacted by sexual abuse, and the broader community, is encouraged to contribute.

This is a special opportunity for community members to contribute creatively to the memorial project, but you don’t need to be an artist to participate,” Ballarat Mayor, Cr Daniel Moloney said.

“Our wish is that this memorial appropriately reflects our community of survivors, their friends and families.”

Artists who will lead the arts projects are:

Paige Duggan, Geoff Hassall and George Williams (songwriting, spoken word)
Rebecca Russell, Dotan Caspi, Steph O’Hara, Silvana Izzo (drawing, animation, movement and multimedia installation)
Robert House, Kaff-eine, Glenn Pearce and James Money (drawing and sculpture)
Eliza-Jane Gilchrist (sculpture)
Michelle Dunn (photography)
All artists have been trained in Trauma Informed Principles and both artists and participants will be supported by the Centre Against Sexual Assault to create a safe space for participants throughout the delivery of the workshops.

From December 2020 Ballarat residents can sign up to participate.

The project is led by a community reference group and the City of Ballarat in partnership with the Art Gallery of Ballarat, Centre Against Sexual Assault (CASA), Beyond Empathy, Care Leavers Australasia Network and Loud Fence.

To find out more or to join a project, go to https://www.creativeballarat.com.au/continuousvoices