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The Flight of the Black Swans, by WA Artist Tish Oldham
A Symbolic View of Palliative Care

The story so far…

The Flight of the Black Swans
The concept of the “Flight of the Black Swans” has been painted by Tish.

Tish has evocatively encapsulated the true beauty of the black swan, the Indian Ocean and the remarkable Western Australian sunset in her painting while reflecting on her own palliative care story.

From an indigenous perspective Aboriginal lore tells how the ancestors of the Nyungar people of the south west of Western Australia believed that men were once black swans.

The Symbolism of “The Flight of the Black Swans”
The different shades of the feathers depict our emotions, they repel the cold and protect and nurture the body. They embrace freedom through flight.

The swan’s long neck symbolises the reaching out and extension of one’s self.

The wings symbolically provide the grace for flight, steadying the spirit, embracing and welcoming new horizons.

The Setting Sun and its Reflections
The setting of the sun is symbolic of life, our families and our meaning. Reflecting back on where we have come from and the freedom to accept what is before us. The setting of the sun reminds us to be still and gives us the energy to look towards a new day.

The Water
Energising and refreshing. Depicting the constant change of life. Never still. Sustains life. Promotes healing and awareness. Washes away our pain and re-energises us.

The Clouds
The froth and bubble of life. The sliver lining illuminated by the sun’s rays, brings awareness of the strength and fragility of the clouds and our life.

The Way Forward
Symbolically and creatively the story of “The Flight of the Black Swans” will unfold and passionately embrace many aspects of palliative care.