Officially launching in Sydney tomorrow, the annual Art from the Heart of the Cross is more than an exhibition it's an opportunity for people who attend Uniting's Medically Supervised Injecting Centre (MSIC) to be seen, heard and valued.
Dr Marianne Jauncey, Medical Director of Uniting's Medically Supervised Injecting Centre (MSIC) said: "This year's theme 'Policy and Paint: The Art of Reform' was chosen in response to last year's NSW Drug Summit – the first held in 25 years.
"The 1999 Drug Summit was pivotal in establishing MSIC in Kings Cross, the first of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.
"As we await the NSW Government's detailed response and funding package to implement the 2024 Summit's recommendations - this year's Art from the Heart carries special meaning for our people.
"The theme reminds us of the need for drug policy reform in NSW - we need reform that is person centred, focussing on improving lives and reducing stigma," Dr Jauncey said.
Candice Gilford, MSIC Health Education Officer said: "There will be some fantastic pieces of art on display - and they will all be available to bid on.
"It takes immense courage for a person to step forward and share their work with the world - revealing one's creativity is an act of vulnerability, putting themselves on display for others to see and interpret.
"We believe that people who use drugs should be treated as whole people and not affected by the persistent social and political stigmas associated with drug use – Art from the Heart is a unique way to do just that," Candice said.
You can support the artistic talents of people who visit MSIC by attending the 2025 public exhibition and/or participating in the online silent auction with 100% of sales going directly to the artists.
The launch event takes place on Saturday 20th September 2pm – 4pm at The Harold Park Community Centre - located within Tramsheds, 2/1 Dalgal Way, Forest Lodge.
Guests include:
- Multi award winning artist Ben Quilty
- Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore AO
- Uniting Board Chair Liz Nichol
- MP for Balmain Kobi Shetty
- MP for Sydney Alex Greenwich
- MP for Summer Hill Jo Haylen
- Greens MP Cate Faehrmann
- MSIC's Medical Director Dr Marianne Jauncey
- The artists
It's free and everyone is welcome.
The physical exhibition runs from 17th September – 21st September 2025, 10am - 4pm.
The 2025 Catalogue: Art from the Heart of the Cross
Uniting runs the Medically Supervised Injecting Centre and has spearheaded the Fair Treatment campaign for fairer drug laws for over six years.
