Ben Quilty is one of Australia’s most celebrated artists. Whether he’s painting the portrait of fellow artist Margaret Olley, of Australian soldiers in Afghanistan, of Jimmy Barnes or even of his old Torana, his style finds a heart and depth not often seen. I first met Ben when he working closely with the Bali 9 (particularly Myuran Sukumaran) using art therapy to help Myu as he sat confined in Kerobokan prison. When the day came for Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukamaran to face death by firing squad, Ben Quilty led the charge to stand for mercy, gathering people from all backgrounds to campaign against the death penalty. It didn’t succeed. But Ben’s passion for commitment to the cause is just one of many instances where this artist and humanitarian has fought tooth and nail for justice. When he was a teenager, art was Ben Quilty’s salve. As an adult, his work continues to help and heal him and those around him. Across five songs, Ben Quilty took part in music therapy.

Paul Kelly - ‘Firewood and Candles’

The Lemonheads - ‘The Outdoor Type’

PJ Harvey - ‘This Mess We’re In (ft. Thom Yorke)’

The Beatles - ‘Blackbird’

Jimmy Barnes - ‘Still On Your Side (ft. Bernard Fanning)’