Hunter Medical Research Institute 2026 A Journey of Culture, Connection and Innovation
Our collaboration with the Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) was more than a project - it was a shared journey grounded in culture, connection, and purpose.
Out on Country: Where the Story Began
In 2024, our journey began on Country.
Together with the HMRI team, we participated in a cultural knowledge and appreciation tour across the Hunter Region, guided by Uncle Paul Gordon. Visiting significant sites within Yengo National Park offered a powerful introduction to the stories, traditions, and deep cultural connections that continue to shape this land.
Mount Yengo, often referred to as the Uluru of the East, stands as a place of great significance for many tribes across the region. Being present on Country - listening and learning firsthand, created a meaningful foundation for the project ahead.
“This was more than a visit.”
Co-Design Through Art: Sharing Stories, Building Connection
Following our time on Country, the journey continued at the Wollotuka Institute in Newcastle through a co-design workshop with the HMRI Imaging team.
This workshop immersed participants in Aboriginal culture, storytelling, and artistic practice, creating a space for open exchange where ideas, perspectives, and experiences could be shared.
Through creative activities, participants developed their own visual story elements using traditional Aboriginal symbolism.
These individual contributions became part of a larger collective narrative, forming the foundation of the final artwork.
“A deeper connection to the project and its meaning.”
The Artwork: Nakiliko Malang – To See Together
At the heart of this project is the artwork “Nakiliko Malang – To See Together.”
This piece tells the story of the HMRI Imaging Centre and its role in advancing holistic healthcare.
The artwork acknowledges both the cultural foundations of Country and the forward movement of science - creating a bridge between past, present, and future.
HMRI Launch: Celebrating Culture and Community
The official launch at John Hunter Hospital was a powerful celebration of community, culture, and innovation.
The event opened with a Welcome to Country by Aunty Sandra Griffin, followed by a smoking ceremony led by Alex Nean.
Cultural dance and music performances, including the Hamilton Public School dance group, brought energy and pride to the day.
“Culture was not part of the event — it was central to it.”
Collaboration in Action
From concept to installation, this project was a true collaboration.
The artwork was integrated across the MRI scanner and surrounding spaces, transforming a clinical environment into one that tells a story, welcomes people, and supports wellbeing.
“The result is more than an artwork, it is a lasting cultural presence embedded within the HMRI environment.”
Supporting Healing Through Story
At its core, this project is about people.
It is about creating a space that feels welcoming and calming for patients and families, a space that eases uncertainty and invites connection, not only to the environment, but to the cultural stories held within it.
It also reflects the broader commitment of organisations like the Mark Hughes Foundation, whose support for research and innovation continues to improve outcomes for communities.
We collaborate with organisations to create meaningful, culturally grounded design outcomes.
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