When you walk into the reception area of the newly refurbished IMPACT Community Health Service (ICHS) at Agnes Water, you might feel like you have stepped into a different world. A large wall mural of the Paperbark Forest, a local tourist attraction, greets you with its serene beauty and calming effect. The mural is the work of Kim Cooke, a local photographer and artist.
Kim was approached by ICHS Practice Manager Pamela Mackie to create a feature wall for the reception area as part of a $150,000 major refurbishment project funded by the Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care. Ms Mackie wanted something that reflected the local area and surrounding environment. She also wanted a positive and relaxing space for the patients and staff, with staff identifying the beauty of the paperbark forest and Ms Cooke’s photography talents. Kim immediately agreed to the idea of the Paperbark Forest. “The Paperbark Forest images symbolise our environment and what we are about. Giving feeling in my imagery is so important,” she said.
Kim is no stranger to the Paperbark Forest. She has been taking photos there for years, capturing its charm and atmosphere. She said the forest was one of her favourite places to photograph, as well as a popular spot for portraits. “The Paperbark Forest is such an iconic tourist attraction in our town. It is such a beautiful spot and has a special feel to it. You have to experience it to understand,” she said.
Kim selected one of her photos of the forest and enlarged it to fit the wall. She also added some effects to make it look more realistic and immersive. She said she wanted to convey a sense of calmness and well-being through the image, as well as a connection to nature. “For me, the Paperbark Forest symbolises health and wellness. It is part of nature and our landscape, which is calming and makes us feel good. Just walking through the forest is therapeutic,” she said.
The feature wall was installed a few weeks ago, and it has received positive reviews from patients and staff alike. Kim has been overwhelmed by the response. “When I was taking photos the other day, a patient walked in, and her reaction was priceless. She said it made her feel like she was really there and that it made the room so inviting. She said we need to add stepping stones across the floor which then carry on into the image.”
Kim said she was honoured and privileged to have been asked to supply a photographic image of her work as a major feature and talking point in town.
About Kim Cooke
Kim’s passion for photography started when she was a child, and she has been pursuing it ever since. She has a corporate graphic design background, which gives her an edge on being more creative with her images. She also incorporates her art into her photography, creating stunning effects and textures. Her motto is “Photography is my Passion. Creating is my Reward.” Learn more about Kim and her work by visiting her website here.
