Keeping Culture Strong is a bespoke cultural arts program designed to support First Nations participants in correctional settings across South Australia. This instalment of Keeping Culture Strong ran for six weeks from August - September at Adelaide Women’s Prison. It was led by respected artist Lisa Khan, with support from guest artists Sally Scales and Jane Russell.
Under Lisa’s mentorship, participants explored their lived experiences, stories and cultural identity through painting. The resulting artworks speak of female strength, cultural pride, deep-rooted knowledge, and connection to Country, community and belonging.
Across 12 sessions technical instruction, cultural conversation and mutual support came together. Participants built their artistic skills and strengthened their cultural voice, finishing resolved works that reflect resilience and personal transformation. Along the way, the women built bonds of sisterhood, with space to practise, share and strengthen women’s knowledge.
“Sometimes people just need someone to remind them of what they are capable of and give them the confidence and support to see it in themselves again. I’m so happy to be delivering this work. It’s really meaningful and making a difference in these women’s lives.” — Lisa Khan
Image: Lisa Khan in her studio at The Mill, 2026. Photo by Mel Henderson.
Lisa Khan
Yankunytjatjara, Antikirinya and Pitjantjatjara artist based in Tarntanya (Adelaide)
Born in 1987, Lisa draws on the strength of two cultures: her mother’s Yankunytjatjara, Antikirinya and Pitjantjatjara heritage and her father’s Ahmadiyya Muslim heritage from Pakistan. She grew up in Coober Pedy and has lived in Alice Springs and the APY Lands. Her work carries those journeys and her connection to Country.
Sally Scales
Pitjantjatjara artist, far west APY Lands based in Tarntanya (Adelaide)
A proud Pitjantjatjara woman, Sally creates vibrant landscapes that represent her ancestral home and tjukurpa (Anangu law and culture). Her style blends the artistic influences of her grandmothers and mother.
Jane Russell
Yankunytjatjara, Antikirinya and Pitjantjatjara based in Tarntanya (Adelaide)
Born in Port Augusta and raised in Coober Pedy, Jane is a mother of four and grandmother of eleven. A longtime community leader, she has worked with the Umoona Community, served on the AMYAC board, and explored pottery, sewing and painting at the local arts and crafts shed.
Ku Arts, Keeping Culture Strong is a 12-month initiative that connects 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.
