The Story
In 2024, after three years and 5,889 submissions, the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide released it’s final report.
The artwork reflects on the unfinished business of the report’s recommendations, commends those brave enough to share their stories, and laments the absence of those who could not.
The Journey
After a career spent supporting and caring for military personnel, Bek found herself overwhelmed by the stories she carried within. After finding support from the art community and ex-Service organisations, she sees this art work as an important part of supporting the military community to create, connect, communicate and share their stories.
For veteran voices to feel heard, held and honored.
The Artwork
5,889 ceramic vessels, fired to 1000 degrees and then placed in a raku kiln in an experience of significant thermal shock - creating brilliant, dramatic and unique glazes reflecting the intense nature of military service and the individual stories that are the result of that service. These vessels will be made from Raku Paper Clay, a versatile and flexible clay which represents the strength of character and adaptable nature of military personnel that is a requirement of service. The clay, moulded by hand to create small vessels during a collaborative workshop with veterans, allows a sacred moment for the veteran to reflect on their service and stories, sharing if they feel inclined. Through this process not every pot survives intact, a nod to the individuality of the collective experience and the risks and sacrifice of serving in the Australian Defence Force
Our Team
What began as a passion project has evolved into so much more.
Natalie Serah Fontana
Production Support
Vashti Morgan
Bek Herron
Artist and founder.Peer Support and AdminVashti is a veteran, former paramedic and passionate advocate for peer support. She served eight years in the Australian Army Reserve, including a period of full-time service during Timor-Leste, before spending 15 years with Ambulance Victoria.
With a strong background in mental health, first aid and supporting those who care for others, Vashti brings both professional experience and lived understanding to Fragments of Service.
Having experienced the challenges of finding identity and connection after service herself, Vashti understands the power of simply finding someone who “gets it.” She is passionate about helping others find that connection too.
Bek Herron is an early-career artist based in Naarm (Melbourne). An Air Force veteran, she explores her perspectives as a woman, a mother, a carer, a health professional and the intersection and often harsh juxtaposition of these roles against the culture and requirements of military service. Bek’s work reflects her interest in how art deconstructs human experiences - becoming a way to document and share with others thoughts, feelings and emotions through different artistic mediums.