Workshops
Creative Expression Workshops for Adoptees and Mothers
Being adopted and/or being separated from a child through adoption is often a complex and traumatic experience. Creative practices can offer a vehicle for self-expression, self-care, and ultimately, healing.
VANISH offers a range of workshops for people affected by adoption. Our workshops provide safe spaces to explore complex emotions and personal narratives through diverse creative modalities. No artistic experience or skill is necessary!
Since 2023 we have curated an innovative program exploring visual art, therapeutic writing, textiles, online storytelling and theatre-making, led by trauma-informed artists and facilitators—many of whom also have a lived experience of adoption.
Recent workshops include:
Ballarat Art Therapy (Spring 2025): A 6-session art therapy program for adoptees in Ballarat, incorporating clay work, mask-making, printmaking, collage and guided imagery. Co-facilitated by Art Therapist Marita Jacobsson and Masters of Counselling student Eva Hoevenaar, participants explored themes of identity, belonging, and healing through arts-based inquiry. Read about participants’ experiences
Theatre for Social Justice Project (2025-2026): A multi-phase project combining online storytelling workshops, oral history interviews and theatre-making workshops. Adoptees collaborated with Dr Alison Ingram to co-create TAKEN, a verbatim theatre piece exploring the enduring impacts of past adoption practices. Phase II continues in 2026. Learn more about this project
Please note: Workshops are offered intermittently depending on funding. To stay informed about upcoming opportunities, subscribe to our newsletter or contact us to express your interest.
Upcoming workshops
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Past workshops
Introduction to Memoir Writing with Dr Sian Prior
Sian Prior, author of two memoirs, introduces some of the key skills and decisions involved in crafting an engaging memoir.
‘Common Threads’ Textile Workshop with Nicole Kemp and SallyRose Carbines
Explore the common threads of the lived experience of being adopted in a tangible, tactile and textural art form, guided by textile artist Nicole Kemp.
Writing as Therapy with Dr Sian Prior
In this 4-part course, author Sian Prior will lead you through a series of ideas and exercises in therapeutic writing.
Art therapy for adoptees and mothers with Michele Hutchins
In this 6-week course, participants will explore different techniques including art, movement, sculpture, meditative exercises and group work.
With funding support from the Australian Government Department of Social Services through Relationships Australia Victoria’s Forced Adoption Support Service.
Get in touch with our friendly team
Contact us to find out more about our services or discuss how we can best support you.