15 August to 2 September 2025 Gut Feelings: Crafting gut-brain connections
Gut Feelings: Bridging Science, Art, and Community
Gut Feelings is a community engaged initiative that integrates science and art to explore the intricate relationship between the gut, brain, and the human gut microbiome. The project seeks to raise awareness of the critical role gut health plays in mental health and overall well-being, while fostering community connection and public engagement.
Through the use of donated, hand-stitched materials, the project transforms complex biological systems into soft sculptural installations, playful and accessible representations of internal bodily processes. The use of knitting and fibre arts offers a familiar medium through which participants can meaningfully engage with scientific concepts, creating a sense of shared purpose and belonging.
By collaborating with researchers and scientists, Gut Feelings disseminates key health messages within a non-clinical, creative setting. The workshops invite community members to contribute to a collective, science-informed body of work that is both intellectually grounded and emotionally resonant. In doing so, the initiative cultivates opportunities for collaborative
making, informal learning, and embodied connection—with each other and with our own physiological systems.
This exhibition positions craft not only as artistic expression, but also as a form of public outreach—an invitation to pause, reflect, and explore the connections between gut, brain, and community.
Gut Feelings is an Inspiring Australia initiative, supported by the Australian Government as part of National Science Week.
Congratulations to Mary Hayman, Rita Pearce, Pat Pillai, Professor Georgina Hold, Dr Erin Shanahan, Dr Paris Tavakoli, and all participating community artists and scientists for their contributions to this important event and for advancing public understanding of the gut microbiome’s role in health and well-being.
Professor Georgina Hold and Dr Paris Tavakoli visited the exhibition on Sunday, 17 August 2025.
