The Museum of Understanding Through Tolerance and Inclusion (MUTTI) is a registered charity run by volunteers that was founded in 2022. The seed to develop MUTTI originated in 2000 when human rights artist and social documentarian Belinda Mason OAM began conceiving, producing and delivering socio-cultural multi-media projects that created a platform for marginalised communities to advocate for social justice.
What underpins this success is the decision to empower those with lived experience of marginalisation and discrimination to be the leaders of conversations that can raise public awareness and inform social policy by speaking at key events in their local communities, and on the global stage. These compelling human rights projects have enabled the participants to showcase their work and host events at the 2013 United Nations (UN) Human Rights Council in Geneva, 2013 and 2016 UN Commission on the Rights of Persons with Disability in Geneva, the 2014 UN World Conference on Indigenous Persons in New York as well as the 2016, 2018, 2020, and 2025 UN Commission on the Status of Women in New York.
Today, MUTTI invites diverse artists to collaborate with marginalised communities through diverse mediums, including theatre, music, film, photography, and literature, to empower and amplify the voices of those often unheard. By artists co-creating thought-provoking artistic expressions that challenge the harms caused by discrimination, the dignity of marginalised individuals is respectfully upheld. This approach emphasises the power of empathy, tolerance, and inclusion to boost self-worth, foster a sense of belonging, and strengthen community bonds.
Dr Zeny Edwards OAM is an accomplished architectural historian, published biographer, and passionate advocate for cultural heritage and human rights. With a PhD in Architectural History, Zeny possesses extensive knowledge in her field. She currently holds significant positions, including President of the Institute for Global Peace and Sustainable Governance, and Coordinator for International Relations with Australian Graduate Women. Zeny contributes her expertise to various organisations, such as the Australian Council for Human Rights Education and the Ku-rin-gai Council Heritage Reference Committee. Her remarkable career includes involvement with the UN Association of Australia Peace Program, UN Women, and several heritage preservation initiatives.
Chris Knierim is a seasoned professional in design and construction with over 30 years of international experience. He currently holds CEO positions at the Building Designers Association of Australia and the Australian Building Sustainability Association. Chris serves as Chair of the Australian Design Alliance and sits on the board of the Australian Construction Industry Forum. His commitment to environmentally sustainable solutions has earned him over 50 national and international design excellence awards.
Dr Denise Beckwith is a dedicated social worker and academic with extensive experience in the disability-rights sector. She is currently a Level A Lecturer within the School of Social Sciences at Western Sydney University. Denise has made significant contributions to organizations like People With Disability Australia and Blur Projects, where she serves as a Disability Advisor and Consultant. She collaborates with Belinda Mason Knierim OAM on various initiatives, including representation at UN conventions and documentary photography projects. Denise’s inspiring journey as a Paralympian swimmer is featured in Belinda’s influential exhibition, ‘Intimate Encounters’. She holds a Bachelor of Social Work (Hons) and has a PhD in Social Work
Colin Watego OAM, also known as Uncle Col, is a highly respected Bundjalung, Torres Strait Islander, and South Pacific Islander man with a distinguished military career spanning over 43 years. He served proudly in the Australian Artillery, including active service in East Timor in 1999. Uncle Col held esteemed positions within the Royal Regiment of Australian Artillery, and his commitment to honouring the warrior spirit of Indigenous Australians led to significant roles in ceremonies and recruitment initiatives. In his retirement, he continues to empower youth as the CEO of TRYP Consultancy, inspiring them to embrace their warrior spirit and serve their community and country. Uncle Col’s contributions have been recognised with the Order of Australia Medal – Military Division in 2016
Belinda Mason OAM is the founder of MUTTI. A passionate multimedia artist and social documentarian, Belinda has spent over 25 years co-creating thought- provoking, collaborative art projects that empower marginalised communities to advocate for their human rights. Belinda’s projects are exhibited internationally. from community centres to the United Nations, and are part of the permanent collections of museums and galleries in Australia and overseas. A recipient of the Blake, Moran, and many other art awards, and a published author, Belinda has spoken at the United Nations on several occasions. She holds a Bachelor of Communications, a Master of Human Rights, and is currently a PhD student. Belinda was awarded the OAM in 2023 for her contributions to the arts and human rights.
