postcards of connection bridge generations
Over the past seven weeks, Happymess Studio has led a project that brought two very different groups together in a surprising and heartwarming way.
Teenagers from Bellingen High School and residents of the RFBI Raleigh Urunga Masonic Village joined forces through Postcards of Connection, an initiative that used art and storytelling to bridge the gap between generations.
Participants exchanged handmade postcards, each decorated with drawings, paintings, or words that carried pieces of their own stories. What began as a simple swap of post card sized paper grew into an unfolding dialogue where young people shared their hopes and daily lives, while seniors offered memories and wisdom gathered over decades. The postcards became more than artworks; they became threads weaving people together across age and experience.
The project culminated in a lively exhibition at the Bellingen Memorial Hall. For the first time, the teenagers and seniors met face-to-face, joined by their families and friends. The afternoon was filled with smiles, laughter, and pride as the postcards were displayed for all to see. What stood out most was the ease of connection in the room - proof that creativity has the power to dissolve barriers and spark new friendships.
Local Gumbaynggirr man Bernard Kelly Edwards played an important role, guiding participants to connect with First Nations approaches to art and storytelling. His contribution added cultural depth and meaning, reminding everyone of the importance of story as a way of keeping connection alive.
Later this year, Postcards of Connection will make its way to Yarrila, where the full postcard collection will be on display. Visitors will also be invited to take part by writing and sending a postcard of their own to a loved one, ensuring that the project’s spirit of sharing and connection continues to grow.
This project was proudly funded by Create NSW, with auspicing support from OzGREEN, whose assistance made it possible to bring this intergenerational exchange to life.
