- Expression
of Interest seeking up to four female artists to take part in Yagan Square
program
- Emerging,
re-emerging or established Whadjuk and Noongar female artists invited to
participate in two-year program
- Yagan
Square to continue to embody and celebrate Whadjuk culture through its
redevelopment
- Up to
four artists will be selected
The Cook Government, through DevelopmentWA, has today launched a search
for established, emerging or re-emerging Whadjuk and Noongar female artists, to
highlight the area's rich history as a meeting place for Whadjuk women.
Up to four artists will be selected for the two-year program, under the design
theme for the program, 'The Significance of Whadjuk Women', which will use
temporary and permanent art elements such as installations, artwork on canvas,
live drawing, and Yagan Square's digital tower to bring to life stories
illustrating the deep cultural connections of the site.
The public art program has been created through close consultation with
the Whadjuk Elders Reference Group of Women, and will continue to ensure
Whadjuk history and culture is embedded in the precinct, as the rejuvenation of
Yagan Square progresses.
The design theme is supported by a range of sub themes as female symbols
of life, including fire (Karla), fresh water (Beelier), land (Boodjar), and sun
(Ngaangk) connections.
The design themes and guidance for the public art program have been led
by a specifically appointed Whadjuk Elders Reference Group of Women - Karen
Jacobs, Gail Yarran and Cheryl Martin - and will employ and develop the skills
of Whadjuk or Noongar female artists.
Interested artists are required to attend a briefing session on Friday
13 October 2023, where they will be provided more information on the program's
cultural context, its themes, and requirements. Register here Briefing
Session Registration.
The EOI period will be open until 23 October 2023, with the program to
run from early 2024 to December 2025. For more information, or to register
interest in being a part of the program, visit Yagan
Square Artist EOI
Comments attributed to Lands Minister John
Carey:
"Yagan Square has a long history as a meeting place for Whadjuk women
and this program will tell the stories of this place, while fostering the development
of our talented artists - whether they are emerging, re-emerging or established.
"This area holds real cultural significance for Whadjuk people, and it's
important to acknowledge and celebrate their stories and heritage through
programs like this.
"We are excited to launch a public art program that will see Yagan
Square showcase the work of Whadjuk and Noongar female artists, and embedded
stories of Whadjuk culture into this modern-day meeting place in the heart of
our city.
"While the precinct undergoes redevelopment, this public art program
will maintain a strong Aboriginal narrative that creates a unique and strong
sense of place."
Comments attributed to Aboriginal Affairs
Minister Tony Buti:
"Artwork and storytelling
go hand in hand with ensuring the protection of Aboriginal history and
heritage.
"This is a great
opportunity for four Whadjuk and Noongar female artists to take a blank canvas
and create a new and vibrant interpretation by bringing their stories to life
in Yagan Square.
"I look forward to seeing
their artwork, which will weave symbolic Aboriginal culture into the very
centre of our city, and enable more people to enjoy the incredible history of
our State that goes back many thousands of years."
