Art exhibition highlights the impact of creative connection – When Words Fall Short

Neami again proudly partners with The Bob Hawke Prime Ministerial Centre, Adelaide University to present When Words Fall Short at the Kerry Packer Civic Gallery.

This is the ninth annual exhibition featuring local emerging artists who take part in Neami’s Day and Group program throughout South Australia.

The launch brought people together to celebrate creativity, connection and the many ways art expresses what words cannot. Guests explored a diverse collection of artworks that share personal perspectives through colour, form and story.

Cecelia’s story

‘I went through a difficult marriage break-up that nearly broke me. My confidence and self-esteem were so low at times I wanted to end my life, and I spent a lot of time in hospital because it wasn’t safe for me to be at home.

‘Even when I’m really depressed and find it hard to leave the house, I can do it on Friday because that’s my art group day. A person’s mental health journey can be disruptive, but during group I almost forget about my mental health and stop internalising everything. A glimmer of hope exists when I’m creative, it helps me. It’s a safe place you can feel okay to go and Neami do it really well. I haven’t been back to hospital for quite some time now.’

‘I feel really comfortable about telling people they could come along and experience a place that can support them through their health issues, using art. Art has been my lifesaver for all this time helping me through difficulties. I thank God for his help, and Neami for providing a safe place.’

Cecelia takes part in Neami’s art group. She describes the mental health support group as a meaningful place where people connect, share and support each other. 

‘Being a rural group, we have some people travelling over 80km to join in. Some people often do not see another person all week until the Friday morning art group. Isolation is one of the big mental health challenges.’ 

Reflecting on what it means to exhibit in Adelaide, Cecelia says, ‘It’s exciting meeting the artists, looking around the exhibition and sharing. It’s a big deal to show your work in public, but we support each other and that makes it feel possible.’

Creating opportunities to connect and be recognised

When Words Fall Short brings together creative work shaped in supportive group spaces.

In these spaces, people explore creativity, express what matters to them and feel recognised for who they are. Each artwork reflects a unique style and a personal way of making meaning.

Neami’s art groups offer a welcoming place where people choose how they create and share their work. The groups strengthen connection with others and create opportunities to exhibit publicly.

Creativity that sustains and uplifts

This exhibition shows how creativity supports connection, confidence and participation. The artworks reflect care, hope and the value of having a place where people feel safe to take part.

Each piece reminds us that when words fall short, art communicates.

Visit the exhibition

When Words Fall Short 

Kerry Packer Civic Gallery
The Bob Hawke Prime Ministerial Centre
Hawke Building Level 3, Adelaide City Campus West
55 North Terrace, Adelaide
Wednesday 3 to Friday 26 June 2026 

For more information visit: https://hawkecentre.adelaide.edu.au/events-and-exhibitions/exhibitions/2026/exhibition-when_words_fall_short/

Artworks are available for purchase.

Presented by The Bob Hawke Prime Ministerial Centre and Neami National, supported by SA Health Government of South Australia.