On December 9, 2022, Making Time presented the perfect opportunity to break away from the hecticness of life and rekindle our creativity. The event was a full day of stories, art, performance, music, creativity and self-care - all designed to reconnect attendees with their creative side.

Check out the highlight video of the event below and have a look at the program from the day.

It was a perfect summer's day in the Perth Hills, and all were Welcomed to Country with a Smoking Ceremony and Cultural Immersion, organised by Sister Kate's Home Kids Aboriginal Corporation. Not only did this moving ceremony pay respects to Noongar culture and the land that we were meeting on, but it also provided an effective cleansing of any bad wirrin (spirit) - allowing us to start our day feeling positive and energised. It was such an amazing and truly special experience, one we don't think any of us will ever forget.

Dr. Shona Erskine's session Looking After Yourself was a much-needed reminder to those in the community arts and cultural development sector of the importance of setting and respecting psychological boundaries. The power and relevance of her advice was palpable, resonating through the whole room - and we continued to discuss her methods even after the session had finished. Luckily, Nimrod Kazoom's carefully curated lunchtime feast provided an excellent balance and nourishment for both body and senses, created with inspiration from Middle Eastern, North African and Spanish cuisine - he added another layer of creativity to Making Time.

During the extended lunch break, attendees participated in several unique sessions featuring some of Western Australia's most talented First Nations creatives and leaders. Noongar Elder Geri Hayden hosted a doll making workshop, in which participants were taught how to use dolls to create a memory of a special person or time in their lives. Acclaimed Noongar textile artist Sharyn Egan guided the group through a totem weaving workshop, where attendees created amazing plants, animals, and pieces with her warm encouragement. Additionally, participants embarked on a cultural walk with Nick Abraham around the bushland and shared stories about the land - allowing for everyone to learn more about this beautiful Boodjar. Lastly, Sandy McKendrick offered up ephemeral art made from natural materials - inviting all participants to thoughtfully contribute as they took in the stunning landscape.

Making Time was a day full of inspiring talks and projects - none more so than the Power of Sharing Stories session presented by Centre for Stories. Storyteller Nadia Heisler and Sisonke Msimang both spoke about how to shape and structure a story to bring healing and strength into our lives. The final session of the day, led by Western Australian Youth Theatre Company (WAYTCO) presented an extraordinary showcase featuring neurodiverse performer Adam Kelly - giving us an insight into his world filled with joy, challenges, heartbreak, and love. Adam invited the attendees to speak all their negative comments into paper planes and release them in an act of collective healing. Making Time gave us many things, Adam's courage and generosity expressed in his performance was yet another precious gift.

It was wonderful to be able to end the day winding down and enjoying the view from the balcony, while watching the Salama Band dance and sing. The food was sumptuous and it was a great opportunity to reflect on what everyone had experienced during the day.

Making Time was an important event for our sector because it allowed everyone to pause, breathe, learn gently, and create. This is especially important during times when it feels like everyone has to rush and move at a record pace. We thank everyone for making this event possible, including our event partner, the City of Kalamunda and the support from the Chamber of Arts and Culture WA and Lotterywest.