When Words Fall Short
3 June 2026 - 26 June 2026
Open weekdays 9am - 6pm
FREE ENTRY
Kerry Packer Civic Gallery
Hawke Building Level 3,
Adelaide City Campus West
55 North Terrace Adelaide MAP
03 June - 26 June 2026
This exhibition celebrates the gratitude we carry for the gift of creativity, and the ways it sustains, uplifts, and helps us make sense of our world. It features artworks by local emerging artists who participate in the Group Programs run by Neami National, a community mental health service supporting people to explore their creative expression in ways that honour their strengths, values and personal style.
The works express hope, resilience, and a deep appreciation for the quiet power of art. Each piece is a testament to the human spirit’s ability to transform emotion into colour, form and story, reminding us that even when words cannot capture what we feel, art can.
Some artworks will be available for purchase.
Angela Warnett works primarily with acrylic and allows my body and mind to flow. There is unpredictability and imperfections which become integral to the final work.
Sarah Donnell is influenced by the power of nature and our connection to it. Her work blends minimalist nature themes with empowering feminine energy, creating pieces which are both soothing and bold — perfect for anyone seeking unique art that inspires peace, strength, and soulful connection.
Art has always been Sarah’s way of connecting with the world’s beauty and complexity. Her artistic practice consists of acrylic and mixed media painting on paper or canvas, with drawing underpinning everything she does and combining both. Successful in selling her work locally and internationally, she has exhibited frequently since her first exhibition in 2006. Whether you’re decorating your living room, office, or gifting someone special, Sarah’s art adds a touch of serenity and empowerment to any space.
Monica Jordan is an aspiring artist who lives in Adelaide. Her mediums are varied. They include painting with acrylic, watercolour and acrylic print. The theme she likes to keep to is the beauty of nature, with the belief that nature is there for us to enjoy, to explore, and from which to gain peace and relaxation. Colour, beauty, and evoking a sense of peace and enjoyment for the beholder is the main goal with this artist's works.
Karen Wedding-Wightman loves creating portraits, much like her mother who was also an artist. She also enjoys doing landscapes such as the beach, and the garden. Karen feels at peace whilst she is creating her drawings. Karen has been an artist since she was five and is a talent that has been nurtured her entire life.
Bev Palmer is a happily married grandma. Between her two grown daughters she has five adorable cherubs. She is a painter and drawer, never having exhibited any works before. Her artwork 'skull and feathers' was produced for a good friend's daughter who is obsessed with animal skulls, and was a labour of love.
Sarah-Jane started making art with her Nana and Grandma at an early age. Art gives her the freedom to help with her grief and depression. Art brings some excitement to the feelings of grief and gets it out of her head. She explores and creates as she goes.
Lindy draws inspiration from everyday moments to create art that captures these using traditional mediums.
Jan Thomas began her art career many years ago with China painting, followed by ceramics and folk art. Her exploration into fine art began about 20 years ago with Neami. She mostly paints in acrylics and pastels. She absolutely love animals and very often painting them.
Cecelia Kluge has been learning how to be an artist for about 20years - and still is. In 2017, after 15 years of investigation she learnt she was officially of Aboriginal descent, stolen generation. Since then she has been learning different techniques - and still is. Art has been a 'lifesaver' for all this time, helping through difficulties. She thanks God for his help, and Neami for providing a safe place.
Joe always loved art, especially abstract works but never put paint to canvas until later in life. Joe’s work is inspired by pop art, colourists and naïve painters. To this artist, painting should be relaxing, fun and spontaneous. Joe has been attending the various Neami art programs in Port Adelaide for over twelve years and successfully completed his Artist in Residence through Jump Arts. Joe quotes, 'I really like seeing new artists at the groups grow and enjoy themselves making art. The groups are not just about art, it’s about socialising too.' Joe hopes to have his own solo exhibition in the future. ​
Amanda Butterfield enjoys using different mediums and has recently been using pastel pencils. Amanda draws her inspiration from nature and animals. She also enjoys the sharing with other artists and exhibiting her artwork.


While the views presented by speakers within The Bob Hawke Prime Ministerial Centre public program are their own and are not necessarily those of either Adelaide University or The Bob Hawke Prime Ministerial Centre, they are presented in the interest of open debate and discussion in the community and reflect our themes of: Strengthening our Democracy - Valuing our Diversity - Building our Future. The Hawke Centre reserves the right to change their program at any time without notice.