Build: The Artwork That Reflects Growth, Resilience and Empowerment
At the start of 2026, Mai-Wel asked local Indigenous artist Jess Sulter to create a piece that captures who we are and what we do. The result is Build, an artwork that sits at the heart of Mai-Wel’s story. Here’s what it means and where it’s heading.
From the Artist:
The artwork serves as a powerful reminder of the symbiotic relationship that exists between staff and participants, where each interaction leaves a mark, much like the vibrant dots that populate the canvas. These interactions foster personal growth, resilience, and empowerment, illustrating the profound effects of community support on individual journeys.
The layering technique not only represents the complexity of these relationships but also signifies the continuous evolution of each person’s story. Just as layers build upon one another, so too do the experiences, lessons, and achievements of participants and staff alike. This ongoing process creates a rich narrative of development and transformation, showing that every step taken is a building block toward greater independence and fulfillment.
Moreover, the symbolism of the kangaroo and emu prints embodies the idea of forward momentum. In every stride, there is a sense of purpose and direction, encouraging participants to move toward their aspirations. This forward-thinking approach is central to Mai-Wel’s mission, reminding everyone involved that growth often entails stepping out of comfort zones and embracing new opportunities.
The depiction of camps, where staff gather and share, highlights the importance of teamwork and collaboration in achieving collective goals. It reflects a culture of mutual support, where knowledge and skills are exchanged freely, creating an environment that fosters innovation and creativity in problem-solving. This sense of camaraderie not only strengthens the team but ultimately enhances the quality of support provided to clients.
In conclusion, this artwork is a vibrant and meaningful representation of the Mai-Wel philosophy, capturing the essence of community, connection, and collaboration. It serves as a visual narrative of hope, resilience, and the transformative power of support, encouraging all who engage with it to reflect on their own journeys and the positive impact they can have on the lives of others. Through this piece, we celebrate the ongoing commitment to building a nurturing and inclusive community, where every individual is valued and empowered to thrive.
Presenting the Piece to Mai-Wel
Artist Jess Sulter visited Mai-Wel to present the artwork to the team. CEO John Cleary and Business Development and Partnerships Specialist Louise Fernie were there to meet her and hear directly about her creative process and vision for Build.
It was a chance to connect with Jess and understand not just what the artwork represents, but how she saw Mai-Wel’s story in the work. The presentation deepened the team’s appreciation for the piece and reinforced why this artwork needed to exist.
Maitland Blacks Charity Day
In May, Build made its public debut on the Maitland Blacks jerseys at Mai-Wel’s Charity Day.
The artwork is a powerful symbol of the event and everything it stood for. Worn by the players and supporters, it represented Mai-Wel’s commitment to supporting vulnerable people in our community.
Attendees were drawn to and connected with what the artwork conveyed, and it showed how meaningful art can carry a message beyond the gallery wall, becoming part of a community moment and a fundraising event that raised just shy of $12,000 for Mai-Wel.
Limited-Edition Candles for NAIDOC Week
Now, Build is finding its way into homes across the region. In partnership with artist Jess Sulter, Mai-Wel is launching a limited-edition native scented candle for NAIDOC Week 2026. Each candle will feature the artwork, artist name, and artwork name, with the scent chosen in collaboration with Jess to represent the artwork and our region.
It’s a way of bringing the piece into everyday spaces and continuing the conversation about what community really means. Through this collaboration, we’re sharing Mai-Wel’s values and the transformative power of connection and support with even more people.
