For generations, women have been the custodians of ancestral knowledge about plants, passing it down through food, healing practices and during key life transitions' rituals. Many of these plants are vital health allies as they support women's reproductive health, easing hormonal cycles, aiding digestion, and promoting restful sleep. These same plants are often used in ceremonies and dreamwork, connecting women to both body and spirit through generations of practice and tradition. However, when women migrate or seek refuge in a new country, this deeply rooted knowledge is at risk of being lost as the plants native to their birth land aren't easy to access any longer. Added to this the pressure to assimilate, overcome language barriers, disrupted community ties, and the need to adapt quickly can all hinder the passing on of traditional ecological knowledge.
This project recognises the essential role that plant wisdom plays in women’s health and cultural identity. By centering the voices and experiences of newly arrived migrant and refugee women, it honours their resilience and celebrates the continuity of their knowledge. Through storytelling, art, and textile, this project provides a platform for women to reclaim and share their heritage—fostering wellbeing, intergenerational connection, and a more inclusive understanding of healing traditions.
Collage Workshop for Parents & Bubs
Join exhibiting artist Sofie Dieu on Saturday 10th January to create, connect, and share stories across generations in this special collage workshop designed for parents/guardians and little ones.
Starting at 10am, families are welcome to stay for as little or long as they like till 11.30am.
A kitchen and separate, quiet room, are also available for families to use during the workshop.
Using vintage botanical illustrations and herbaria prints, you and your bub (or young child) will craft a soothing composition inspired by plants that promote peaceful sleep and sweet dreams.
As you explore these calming plants, you’ll learn about their natural healing properties and the cultural significance they’ve held across generations. Share your own family traditions and stories, while discovering how these plants have been passed down through time to support rest and rejuvenation.
This workshop offers a chance for parents/guardians to bond with their kids in a creative, relaxing environment, while also honoring the wisdom of nature. You’ll leave with a beautiful, personalised botanical piece to hang in your child's room —a gentle reminder of the plants that nurture both sleep and dreams for your whole family.
Registrations required for this free workshop (Registrations are per adult only. Please let Kingston know if you are bringing more than two children). Please RSVP at the link provided.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Sofie Dieu is a French-born, Melbourne-based visual artist, academic, and PhD candidate at Monash University. Her collaborative projects with communities, musicians, and organisations—such as the Black Dog Institute and Multicultural Women Victoria—explore migration, ecology, and women’s cultural knowledge. Her works, including Longing for Home and Sacred Plants, Our Ancestors’ Legacy, have been exhibited across Australia and France. Sofie has received major grants from Creative Victoria and Creative Australia. She is a finalist in national prizes like the Percivals and Waterhouse, and her work is held in public and private collections in Europe and Australia.
Collage Workshop for Sleep & Dream EnhancemenT (Past workshop)
Join exhibiting artist Sofie Dieu for an inspiring and relaxing workshop where creativity meets nature. In this hands-on collage session, participants will explore vintage botanical illustrations and delicate herbaria to craft a beautiful composition inspired by plants known to promote restful sleep and enhance dreams.
As you immerse yourself in the rich history and symbolism of these calming plants, you’ll learn about a variety of species — from ancient herbs to modern remedies — and may even discover a plant with personal significance from your own cultural tradition.
Not only will you leave with your own unique botanical artwork, but you’ll also deepen your connection to the healing power of plants. Perfect for those looking to unwind, learn, and create something meaningful to keep or gift!
This workshop occurred on Wednesday 3 December.
ACCESS
Free street parking is available near all Kingston Arts exhibition spaces. Dedicated mobility parking spots are located at the main entrances of Kingston Arts Centre (G1 & G2) and Shirley Burke Theatre (G3).
G1 and G2 at Kingston Arts Centre are less than 200m from Moorabbin Station. G3 at Shirley Burke Theatre is less than 200m from Parkdale Station.
All venues have automatic doors and either flat or ramp access at their main entrances. The side entry at Kingston Arts Centre & Kingston City Hall also has step-free access.
Each gallery space provides all-gender, wheelchair-accessible bathrooms.
For more details and special requirements visit our accessibility page
We are committed to providing accessibility options for all our patrons. Please reach out to our helpful staff by calling (03) 9556 4440 or emailing if you have any queries.
Image credit: Sofie Dieu Sacred Water with Papa (detail) 2025, embroidery on bed linen, silk and lace scraps, cotton thread.