Helping consumers feel safe, connected to country and not alone is the aim of artwork planned for the link bridge to West Moreton Health’s new Mental Health Acute Inpatient Service.

When proud Goreng Goreng artist Rachael Sarra consulted with local Elders on design details recently, she was asked to produce work that would be of comfort to young adults in particular.

Suggestions included footprints to help consumers find their way and provide guidance and spiritual connection; and handprints to symbolise healing and reaching out for help.

Ms Sarra, whose creative work can be seen on the side of Ipswich Health Plaza, visible from East Street, said the guidance from Elders gave more meaning to the artwork.

“When I create art, I want it to reflect the community," Ms Sarra said. "I want young people to feel like this is their art.

"My aim is to create a culturally safe space to help them feel connected, particularly if they are feeling alone.”

While being beautiful and meaningful, the art will double as a privacy screen for the 48m pedestrian footbridge linking Ipswich Hospital with the Mental Health Acute Inpatient Service building on Chelmsford Avenue.

The Elders and Ms Sarra will meet again to finalise the artwork before the facility opens in the second half of the year.