Blacktown: FASD conversations through art
The Blacktown LDAT ran creative art workshops where women and girls from many cultures talked about alcohol, pregnancy and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).
What the workshops involved
The Blacktown Local Drug Action Team (LDAT) worked with the Blacktown Women’s and Girls’ Health Centre, where an art therapist led a series of six two-hour workshops for groups of up to five women and girls. Participants came from Afghanistan, China, India, the Philippines, Scotland and Australia.
The first session began by asking everyone the word for alcohol in their own language. From there, while they painted, drew and made collages, the group talked about alcohol, how it affects a baby during pregnancy, and FASD. The facilitator drew on ADF information about FASD and ADF’s Power of Words guide to non-stigmatising language. The workshops also made clear that partners and men have a part to play in alcohol-free pregnancies.
FASD describes the effects on the brain and body of people exposed to alcohol before birth. It’s a lifelong disability, and every person with FASD has their own strengths and challenges.
Watch the ADF video on alcohol and pregnancy that was shared in the workshops (1:02 minutes).
Why art helps start conversations
Art gave the group a gentle way into a topic that can be hard to raise. Cultural and religious beliefs, language and stigma can all make it harder for women to talk about alcohol, especially with people who may not understand their needs. Making art together created a safe, non-judgemental space where those conversations felt easier.
The more we can have open conversations about FASD, the more that women will feel they can talk about it with their midwife or GP. Art therapist, Blacktown Women’s and Girls’ Health Centre
What participants gained
Participants grew in confidence and made new friendships. In their feedback, the social connections they made were what they valued most. Feeling part of a community makes it easier to talk about alcohol and other drugs, including with a GP. The workshops also connected participants with local support services.
Read more about how communities support alcohol-free pregnancies in the Alcohol and pregnancy toolkit, and about other creative programs on our community arts page.
Last reviewed: 4 November 2026