Wila

Long ago, there was a young child named Wila, whose skin felt like the rough bark of a tree on a hot, dry day. Wila’s skin was itchy and sometimes sore, like it was asking for help. The healers told Wila  that this feeling was called eczema. Eczema couldn’t be chased away, but it could be kept calm and happy. 

The healers taught Wila the ways of caring for her skin. “Keep the skin soft,” they said, giving Wila a special balm. “Every day, put it gently over the whole body. This helps the skin to stay strong and healthy, like the land after a good rain.” 

They also taught Wila to watch for things that made the skin restless. “Some things can stir it up,” they warned, “like certain plants, dust, or heat.” So, Wila learned to listen to her skin, protecting it from things that could make it angry and itchy. 

When Wila’s skin felt fiery and sore, the healers gave gentle medicine. “When a flare comes, we treat it with care,” they said. “The healer’s medicine will soothe the spirit of the skin, calming it like a soft breeze after a storm.” 

With these teachings, Wila learned to keep her skin spirit peaceful and strong. And so, Wila passed the story on, sharing the wisdom of Eczema Care for Everyone and showing others how to care for their skin so they, too, could find peace with the little spirit called eczema. 

Behind the Story of Wila’s Artwork: A Journey of Culture, Care, and Community 

Wila’s story is a reflection of what eczema care can look like when it’s shaped by education and connection. 

This special piece was brought to life through collaboration with our Founder and Managing Director, Melanie Funk, and Aboriginal artist Charlie Waters. The artwork was inspired by the story of Wila—created by Eczema Support Australia to reflect the resilience, care, and cultural connection experienced within the eczema community, particularly amongst Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Alongside our evidence-based eczema care resources, Wila’s story guided Charlie’s creative interpretation, resulting in a powerful visual expression of healing and strength.

Inspired by First Nations’ storytelling traditions, Wila’s story celebrates the importance of listening—to our bodies, to each other, and to the wisdom passed through generations. At its heart is the message that eczema care is not just medical; it’s emotional, cultural, and personal. 

The central meeting circle in the artwork represents the strength that comes from shared experiences and knowledge—whether that is between families, health professionals, or the eczema community. The lines stretching outward symbolise how care and information ripple outwards, reaching all who need support. 

Charlie’s intricate patterns also reflect the texture and strength of the skin, connecting the physical experience of eczema with the natural world. Through this lens, the epidermis becomes more than skin—it becomes a symbol of endurance and connection to the land. 

Just as Wila learns to care for her skin with gentleness and awareness, this project reminds us that eczema care is a shared journey. At Eczema Support Australia, we’re proud to help tell stories that connect and empower—because eczema may be personal, but no one should have to face it alone. 

 If you are looking for support, we have created an eczema resource designed with and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities please click the link: Eczema Care for Everyone