“Those who leave, live on through our living…”

Elegy for an Elephant is a picture book inspired by the journey of my family to repair and heal after our Dad departed this life through suicide. I have authored, illustrated and self published this book, with the wish to offer a beacon of hope and therapeutic resource for readers ages 7+, and for all the families and communities supporting them through their mourning. This is the art exhibition of the book’s creative development and becoming.

Set between the sea and stars, and loosely based on my twin sisters and I, three children (a whale, a dove and a swallow) seek their father’s soul. At it’s heart, this story honours ways we can connect with loved ones we have lost, and the timeless nature of love.

Elegy for an Elephant comes out on World Suicide Prevention Day (September 10). This art exhibition provides an insight into the ‘behind the scenes’ and making of. It will feature storyboarding, filmic works, the final artwork, as well as document the creative process underscoring the book’s evolution.

18% of profits from each book will be donated to Lifeline, Movember and Support after Suicide Services – supporting the urgent and important work these organisations are doing for suicide prevention and bereavement counselling.

For more information about the elephant’s ‘migration’ across picture book plains, gallery hours, author talks, book signing times, pre-order and more information please head to www.narrativesofnature.com or follow the unfolding on Instagram at @narrativesofnature_

Whilst this book uniquely touches on suicide and it’s impacts, it also broadly explores grief around the loss of a loved ones through all causes of death. This exhibition is open to the community. Please feel welcome to invite anyone who you feel it may resonate with. I hope all those who view this work will feel seen, supported and carried in their healing journeys.

I acknowledge the Traditional Custodians and Owners upon whose land and waterways this story was imagined and created. I pay my respects to Elders – past and present, and recognise their ongoing connection to telling stories on Country.

Ryan Abramowitz
Artist and Author

CONTENT WARNING: This book and exhibition refers to suicide and its impacts.
Please seek professional help if you need support. If someone’s life is in danger, call 000.
Lifeline: available 24/7 for crisis support
Call 13 11 14 or text 0477 13 11 14

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‘Elegy for an Elephant’ is an imprint of Narratives of Nature, est. 2023. ISBN 978-0-6458021-9-1
This event is proudly supported by the City of Port Phillip through the Cultural Development Fund.