Celebrating Creativity and Mental Health: headspace Day 2025 Make Space Showcase

On Friday, 5 December 2025, headspace Knox came alive with colour, creativity, and connection. Just two days later, on Sunday, 7 December, headspace Lilydale brought the same vibrant energy to the Lilydale Melba Street Fair.

Together, these celebrations marked headspace Day 2025 with our ArtSpace Showcase, following an inspiring art competition held throughout October and November.

Make Space for Mental Health

We invited young people aged 12–25 to explore the theme “Make Space” a call to create room for mental health, identity, and wellbeing through art. Artists reflected on questions such as:

  • What does diversity and harmony mean to you?
  • What makes “me”, me?
  • What does mental health and/or wellbeing mean to you?
  • What does community mean to you?

Entries poured in from across Knox, Maroondah, Yarra Ranges, and beyond. The results were breathtaking! From paintings and drawings to mixed media pieces, each artwork told a unique story of resilience, hope, and self-expression.

A Celebration of Voices

Jasmine Scampton, Community Engagement Coordinator, shared:

“Our volunteers and staff have long wanted to invite local young artists to help make our 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. We have been honoured by these artists—their time, their creations, and their bravery in sharing their vulnerabilities.”

Amanda Thomas, Centre Manager, added:

“The Make Space Art Competition is more than an exhibition. It is a space where ideas are transformed into images, where feelings take shape, and where the inner worlds of young people are seen, heard, and valued. Through the artworks, we witnessed honesty, talent, and the strength it takes to express what mental health means on a personal level. The artwork reminds us that mental health is not one story but many, each unique and deserving of recognition.”

Miranda’s Reflections: Why Art Matters

Miranda Bunting, a member of our Youth Action Force (YAF), delivered an inspiring speech:

“Often, clinical environments can feel a bit sterile or intimidating, especially when you are already having a tough time. We wanted to change that dynamic. By filling these walls with art created by young people, we wanted to send a message that this space belongs to us. Art allows us to say things that words sometimes can't. Every piece you see here today represents courage. This showcase matters because it creates visibility, showing that every story is valid and worth sharing.”

If you or someone you know (aged 16–25) would like to join our Youth Action Force, we’d love to hear from you!

Voices from Our Young Artists

  • Teagan, First place winner (Knox): “Thank you so much for this opportunity.”

  • Maya George, Second place winner (Knox): “I truly believe art and music can save lives because it saved mine.”

  • Ginger Frankie, Third place winner (Knox): “After struggling with mental health, this artwork is a step in my healing journey and I hope it can help others feel they should live too.”
  • Sheridan: “I want to be the reason someone believes in goodness again.”

  • Monika: “It helped me break out of my routine and rediscover what I love most.”

Parents and community members echoed the sentiment:

“This was absolutely amazing—I really hope you do more events like this in the future.”

Looking Ahead

The success of this year’s ArtSpace Showcase has inspired us to make this a regular tradition. We can’t wait to see what next time brings!