If you are a Bathurst resident affected in some way by adoption, a Charles Sturt University (CSU) student's research project needs your help. Ms Alesha Elbourne, an honours student in the CSU School of Communication and Creative Industries in Bathurst, is researching the use of art-based methods to explore stories, experiences and issues concerning people affected by adoption. "I am seeking adoptees, parents, siblings, grandparents, close relatives and persons who identify themselves as being part of the community of people affected by adoption," Ms Elbourne said. "My research will ask participants to participate in small art-making workshops in which art works exploring their stories and experiences of adoption will be presented through creative activities such as collage, drawing, sculpture and storytelling. No artistic skills or training are required as a homemade style is appreciated, materials will be provided, and I will help you throughout the art-making process." As an adoptee herself, Ms Elbourne's research aims to study interactive arts-based methods as a tool for bringing cultural awareness to the broader community. Through this study participants will have an opportunity to contribute their story and experience of adoption to a community art project while maintaining anonymity if they choose. Several two to three hour-long workshops for participants are planned, starting in mid-August in Bathurst. For further details or to register your interest, please contact Ms Alesha Elbourne on 0407 871 202 or aleshaunleashed@gmail.com.