The Healing Place is a space for the community to sit and reflect, together, under the open sky.
Representing the most basic form of shelter and safety used by people all over the world, that which is provided by nature, the Healing Place is formed by native gum leaves etched with floral artworks representative of the flowers, leaves and fruits found in Whiteman Park. Here, you can find a moment of calm and tranquillity as you immerse yourself in the sounds of nature: listen to the wildlife in the nearby wetlands and the breeze through the surrounding trees.
At the entrance to the shelter you will find open handprints – provided by members of the community and those closely involved in the project – welcoming all to enjoy this space, whether solo or in a small group.
We invite you to sit and to take a moment to contemplate what happiness is to you, and to find a moment of healing by reflecting on the four pillars to happiness – storytelling, purpose, belonging and transcendence.
The circular shape and seating arrangement allows for everyone to be seen, heard, respected and appreciated as equals within the community.
Leading to the shelter is a 'path to happiness'. The design represents the local waterways and landforms that were created by the Wagyl during the Dreamtime. It is along this pathway that you will encounter the four pillars to happiness – storytelling, purpose, belonging and transcendence – to consider and reflect on as you come together in the Healing Place.
four pillars to happiness
Whiteman Park thanks local Whadjuk, Ballardong, Arrernte artist Jade Dolman for her work on this project.