Art. Culture. Truth.

 Cultural Art Therapy is a transformative practice that combines traditional Indigenous cultural practices with art to foster emotional healing, self-discovery, and empowerment. Raphael uses creative expression as a tool to help individuals tap into their subconscious, explore personal challenges, and connect with their cultural heritage.

With a trauma-informed approach, Raphael creates a safe space for participants to express themselves freely, honouring their emotional experiences without judgment. The process empowers individuals to work through past trauma, honour their resilience, and reclaim their sense of self through artistic expression. This method is gentle, respectful, and honours each individual’s pace, ensuring that healing happens in a supportive, non-invasive way.

 Raphael’s work is heavily influenced by the land and its deep connection to healing. The land is not just a backdrop; it is a living, breathing entity that carries knowledge, wisdom, and healing energy. Through their workshops and therapy sessions, Raphael invites participants to connect with the land and understand its significance in Indigenous culture and healing practices.

Incorporating the natural environment into their workshops, Raphael helps participants understand the spiritual relationship Indigenous people have with the land, how to draw strength from it, and how to incorporate its wisdom into their personal healing journey and into the work of community. This approach supports trauma recovery, using the healing properties of nature to ground and restore balance.

 Raphael offers a range of dynamic, specialised workshops that cater to individuals and groups looking for deeper connection, healing, and personal growth. Their workshops are unique and designed to engage participants through a blend of cultural teachings, art practices, and land-based ceremonies. Whether you are an individual seeking healing, a community looking for collective growth, or an organisation hoping to explore cultural awareness, Raphael’s workshops are tailored to meet the specific needs of each group.

With a trauma-informed approach to their workshops, Raphael ensures that all participants feel comfortable and supported throughout the process. They create a space where healing can occur at the individual’s pace, with respect for personal boundaries and emotional experiences.

A unique aspect of Raphael’s artistic practice is their approach to jewellery-making, which blends both traditional Indigenous methods and contemporary techniques. Using a combination of natural materials such as seed, stone, bone, and wood, along with modern tools and materials, Raphael creates intricate and meaningful pieces of jewellery. These pieces are more than just beautiful adornments—they are symbolic, representing ancestral stories, connections, and spiritual practices.

In their workshops, Raphael teaches participants how to create jewellery using both traditional and modern methods, blending the old and the new to craft meaningful, personal pieces. This practice is a way to honour Indigenous heritage while also exploring contemporary artistic expression. Raphael’s jewellery-making workshops provide a space for participants to connect with their cultural identity, learn valuable skills, and create powerful symbols of empowerment.

Raphael’s passion extends beyond individual healing; they are deeply committed to supporting Indigenous LGBTQ+ community. Through Bogong Moth Art and Healing Services, Raphael seeks to bring art therapy and cultural healing practices to these communities, fostering empowerment and resilience through creative expression.

 Raphael offers Cultural Advisory Services for individuals, communities, and organisations seeking to engage with First Nations cultures in a respectful, ethical, and meaningful way. As a Ngarigo and Yuin person, Raphael provides guidance on cultural safety, decolonisation, and allyship, ensuring that Indigenous knowledge and perspectives are honoured with integrity.

Whether you are an artist, educator, organisation, or community leader, Raphael’s Cultural Advisory Services provide a grounded and informed approach to working with First Nations cultures, fostering deep respect, ethical engagement, and meaningful change.