The Superhero Project

A global arts-in-health initiative that has captured hearts worldwide — including a recent feature on The Kelly Clarkson Show — is now looking to take flight in Australia. The Superhero Project (SHP), a US-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit, has already empowered more than 1,800 children across two dozen countries, and its next chapter is set to begin in Queensland, Australia.

Transforming Children Into the Heroes of Their Own Stories

At the heart of The Superhero Project is a simple yet profound idea: every child deserves to see themselves as powerful, brave, and capable — especially those living with illness or disability.

SHP pairs children with volunteer artists who collaborate with them to design a personalised superhero alter ego. Together, they craft an imaginative visual narrative that celebrates each child’s resilience, creativity, and inner strength. The results are more than artworks; they are powerful reframings of identity — shifting the focus from sickness to possibility, from limitation to courage.

A Growing Global Movement Anchored in Art and Wellbeing

From hospitals to community art studios, SHP has partnered with organisations around the world to bring joy, confidence, and hope to young people navigating challenging health conditions. Families consistently describe the process as transformative, offering not only empowerment for their children but also moments of delight, connection, and emotional relief.

Now, SHP is inviting Australian hospitals, health networks, art groups and creative foundations to join this growing international community.

An Invitation to Australia’s Arts and Health Sector

SHP is not seeking funding. Instead, the call to Australia is simple:
help share, connect, and introduce this program to local organisations that could bring the experience to Australian children.

Whether you work in paediatrics, creative health, arts engagement, community care, or local government, your network could play a vital role in opening this opportunity to families in need.

Explore and Connect

For those wishing to learn more, get involved, or share the opportunity with others:

Donations are welcome but not required — the immediate goal is awareness and participation so that children across Australia can experience the same joy and empowerment that have touched families worldwide.

A Message From the Artist Championing the Initiative in Australia

The call to bring SHP to Australia comes from Sharni Kanon, Australian artist and advocate for creative wellbeing.

“Every child deserves to see themselves as the hero of their story.”
— Sharni Kanon

Image: Super Boo, Created by N. (age 8), Designed by Rox D’Arpa. Image sourced from SHPkids.org

 

Co-written by Sharon Canon and Elyssa Sykes-Smith. Posted by Elyssa Sykes-Smith.

  • Sharon Kanon is an Australian artist, and advocate for The Superhero Project
  • Elyssa Sykes-Smith is a multidisciplinary artist, educator and climate psychology researcher, and Media Officer at AHNNA.