Warrior Women in Canberra

A moving and insightful art exhibition created by women exploring their experiences of breast cancer was launched by Senator Kay Patterson, Federal Minister Assisting the Prime Minister on the Status of Women, at the National Capital Exhibition, Regatta Point in Canberra today.

Women of all ages, cultural and social backgrounds, collaborated with women artists to develop this significant exhibition. The collaborations took place over a two year period and resulted in over 100 pieces of mixed media art.

Senator Kay Patterson, Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for the Status of Women, said: “Warrior Women intimately explores the impact of breast cancer on the lives of women. It reminds us that this disease is not constrained by any cultural or social barriers, and in some ways it can bring women together, enabling them to express their profound shared experience.

“These artists are inspirational through their art and in their courage to revisit their often-painful journey, communicating their experience to other women, friends, family – and the community.

“The staging of the exhibition in Canberra was assisted by a $5,000 grant from the Australian Government.”
Senator Patterson said the Federal Government was strongly committed to the fight against breast cancer, which affects one in eleven women.

“Cancer is a National Health Priority and in Australia I’m pleased to say we have seen cancer deaths fall on average by 1.9 per cent during the past ten years, and by more than 50 per cent for cervical cancer,” Senator Patterson said.

“In 2003 the National Health and Medical Research Council invested nearly $36 million into health and medical research specifically on women’s health with a large investment into cancer, cancer prevention and reproductive health.”

The timing of Warrior Women is significant because it opens during Breast Cancer Week and will remain open at Regatta Point for the duration of the Healthpact 9th Australian Masters Games (31 October 2003 – 9 November 2003).