WHAT WE CARRY FORWARD

Born in 1955 near Pukatja (Ernabella), Josephine Mick is a senior Anangu woman, Ngangkari (traditional healer) and cultural leader. Her knowledge was shaped by her mother, her Country in the eastern APY Lands, and the responsibilities entrusted to her from a young age. After a powerful childhood dream of fire, she began her work as a healer, focusing especially on women and children. Through her artwork and inma (ceremony), she continues to share stories, cultural practices, and healing traditions, ensuring that knowledge, care, and connection to Country remain strong for future generations.

Lisa Khan’s practice draws deeply from her country and womens health. Living with endometriosis for many years, she reflects on the silence surrounding women’s health within her Pakistani and Aboriginal families and the consequences of what was left unspoken. Her work honours the women who came before her — their strength, their pain and their endurance — while choosing to break cycles of shame for the sake of daughters and granddaughters.

Now living in Adelaide for health reasons, Jane Russell continues to paint from home alongside her daughter, Lisa Khan. Her works reflect the warm, earthy colours of Coober Pedy — the place she still calls home — keeping her spirit connected to Country, culture and identity.

Together, their works speak to inheritance: of story, strength and responsibility, reminding us that family knowledge shapes what we carry forward.

Lisa Khan painting in her studio at The Mill, 2026. Photo: Mel Henderson.

What We Carry Forward is presented at Arts In Health, Flinders Medical Centre. Ku Arts has been partnering with Arts in Health since 2023 to deliver an exhibition program showcasing works by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists. This partnership champions the role arts has in improving the quality of life for all people, contributing to a vibrant First Nations arts sector.