Knox Headspace hosted its youth-led community event, ‘headspace Day’ on Friday, 5 December from 3.30pm to 5pm to celebrate young voices, creativity and mental health awareness.
This year’s theme was “Make Space”, which encouraged young people to reflect on identity, wellbeing and community through art.
Community engagement coordinator, Jasmine Scampton, said the volunteers and staff had long hoped to invite local young artists to help make their space feel more inclusive and welcoming.
“We could not have been more blown away by the community response. It is such a privilege to be part of organising these events alongside our volunteers, staff and all involved,” she said.
“We have been honoured by these artists, their time, their creations, and their bravery in sharing their vulnerabilities.”
The event featured a Youth-Led Art Competition, co-designed by headspace Knox’s Youth Action Force (YAF), alongside guided art tours, speeches, music and refreshments.
Entries came from young people aged 12 to 25 across Knox, Maroondah, Yarra Ranges and beyond, including paintings, drawings and mixed media pieces.
Each artwork explored the questions: What does diversity and harmony mean to you? What makes “me”, me? What does mental health and/or wellbeing mean to you? And what does community mean to you?
Centre manager, Amanda Thomas said it was a privilege to be part of the headspace Knox and Lilydale ArtSpace celebrations.
“These events were powerful, showcasing the creativity, courage and voices of young people across our region,” she said.
“This competition was inspired by the talent we knew existed, but we didn’t realise how meaningful this opportunity would be for so many young people, their families and the wider community.”
“The Make Space Art Competition is more than an exhibition, it’s a space where ideas become images, feelings take shape, and young people’s inner worlds are seen, heard and valued.”
“Through the artworks, we witnessed honesty, talent and the courage it takes to express what mental health means on a personal level. It reminds us that mental health is not one story, but many, each unique and worthy of recognition.”
A member of the youth action force, Miranda Bunting said the project was driven by a desire to transform how the space feels.
“Clinical environments can feel sterile or intimidating, especially when you’re having a tough time, we wanted to change that,” Ms Bunting said.
“Filling the walls with art by young people sends a message that this space belongs to us, when someone walks in for their first appointment, they shouldn’t just see a clinic – they should see their peers, their struggles and their creativity.”
“Art expresses what words often can’t. It connects our inner experiences to the outside world and helps us process difficult feelings.”
“Every piece here represents courage. Sharing your inner world is scary, but that vulnerability is why this exhibition matters. It gives visibility to every story and builds community by reminding us we’re not alone.”
First-place winner for headspace Knox, Teagan, said she’s very grateful of the opportunity.
Second-place winner, Maya, said she truly believe art and music can save lives because it saved mine.
And third-place winner, Ginger, said the artwork was a step in her healing journey after struggling with mental health.
“I hope it can help others feel they should live too,” she said.
Other participants spoke about what creating art meant to them.
“I want to be the reason someone believes in goodness again, the reason someone smiles, or finds the courage to keep going.” Sheridan said.
Another participant, Adele said, “I’m excited that my artwork is part of this showcase.”
while Monika said it was an honour to create an artwork for the community.
“It helped me break out of my nine–five routine and overcome an artist’s block. I’d stopped painting for a while, and this project helped me rediscover what I love most,” she said.
Young people aged 12 to 25, and their families, can access support through headspace Knox or Lilydale, or via eheadspace from 3pm to 10pm (AEDT) on 1800 650 890.
For immediate help, Lifeline is available on 13 11 14, Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800, and 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732.
