Mi:wi in Mirnu Unit

Keeping Culture Strong is a bespoke cultural arts program designed to support First Nations participants in correctional settings across South Australia. The first instalment of the 2026 Keeping Culture Strong program took place at Mirnu Unit inside Yatala Labour Prison.

Over ten weeks commencing in March, participants worked alongside renowned Ramindjeri-Ngarrindjeri and Narangga artist Cedric Varcoe. Focusing on Mi:wi - the inner spirit that connects individuals to totems, ancestry and Country - participants created deeply personal shield artworks on large oval canvases. Through storytelling, cultural reflection and guided design development, participants explored symbolism drawn from their own histories and cultural knowledge. The shield becomes both canvas and cultural object a contemporary expression of identity, strength and protection.

Cedric’s mentorship supported participants to translate inner narratives into exhibition-ready artworks, strengthening cultural pride while building sustained painting skills and creative discipline across the program. Many of the artworks created during the ten week program will be exhibited during SALA in Artists on the Inside.

Image: Cedric Varcoe at Artists on the Inside 2025.
Photo: Mel Henderson

Image: Cedric Varcoe, 2023.
Photo: Mel Henderson

Keeping Culture Strong is a 12-month initiative connecting respected First Nations artists with participants through structured, culturally grounded and trauma-informed workshops that centre storytelling, connection to Country and creative expression.

The Keeping Culture Strong program creates spaces within correctional facilities where culture is practiced, shared and strengthened. Participants are supported to explore their personal narratives, cultural knowledge and lived experience through visual arts, transforming ideas into murals, shields and studio-based artworks that reflect pride, strength and belonging.

Through meaningful engagement with professional Aboriginal artists, participants will gain insight into creative industries, professional arts practice and cultural leadership. The program encourages participants to see art not only as healing and expression, but as a viable pathway for ongoing learning, cultural authority and potential future employment or independent creative practice.

This program was supported by the Department for Correctional Services, Government of South Australia.