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Harmony Otrupcek, 2025 Brighter Futures Scholarship recipient

For Gamilaraay woman and 2025 Brighter Futures Scholarship recipient Harmony Otrupcek, art is more than just a form of expression—it’s a way of connecting with and understanding the world.

By drawing on her background in chaplaincy and community engagement, she channels these experiences into her Bachelor of Visual Arts to create art that speaks to both the heart and mind.

"Being the first in my family to finish high school and go to university was daunting. Neither my parents nor my siblings completed high school,” she says. “I didn't have a roadmap for what university would be like.”

Harmony says art gives her a voice and allows her to share stories and create connections. “This scholarship gives me the freedom to fully immerse myself in my practise without fear of financial stress,” she says.

Having just completed her final trimester, Harmony is currently waiting to see if her results will open the door to an Honours degree. “This is a pivotal point in my journey,” she says. “I could really focus on my studies. This financial support has been crucial.”

Harmony's artistic vision spans multiple mediums, from painting to installation and sculpture. "Different materials allow me to express myself in unique ways," she says. "Art is timeless and flexible. I love not being confined to one form."

But this artistic exploration and freedom comes with a price tag. "It can get expensive," she admits. "The scholarship helps cover the costs of materials, so I can experiment and push boundaries in ways I couldn't afford to before."

Harmony says the benefits of the scholarship extend beyond financial support. "Having time to think is essential," she says. "Now I can take my time to develop my ideas, sit with concepts and let them evolve naturally. That creative freedom is invaluable."

Looking ahead, Harmony has set her sights on becoming a full-time visual artist, with a focus on commissions and exhibitions. She's also exploring opportunities for residencies as an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artist.

"I want to aim for the stars and see where I land," she says. "The Brighter Futures Scholarship isn't just supporting my education—it's investing in my future as an artist and the impact I hope to have through my work.”

Harmony says the scholarship has also given her permission to dream big. “It’s about someone believing in your potential and investing in your dreams,” she says. “This support gives me the confidence to push boundaries and take creative risks.

"I believe art is more than a solo activity. To me, it has always been about community and connection.

"I'm grateful for all this support that allows me to pursue my passion, focus on my studies and not have to worry about money."