- Cook Labor Government invests more than $381,000 to strengthen the capacity of regional galleries and visual arts organisations across Western Australia
- Funding will support capacity building, strengthen connections across the regional visual arts sector, and support long-term planning for infrastructure development
- Cook Labor Government fostering a vibrant and creative economy
The Cook Labor Government is supporting the growth and sustainability of regional visual arts across Western Australia with a $381,000 investment in gallery capability, artist engagement and the future development of regional touring networks.
Saltwater Gallery, Southern Forest Arts and ART ON THE MOVE are the latest recipients of targeted regional support designed to expand the reach and capacity of public regional galleries across the State.
The latest funding will support gallery development, artist participation, sector connectivity and planning for future visual arts infrastructure and touring opportunities across regional WA.
The City of Busselton received $61,280 to strengthen Saltwater Gallery’s capacity to deliver high-quality exhibitions through the engagement of an assistant curator. The role supports exhibition delivery, touring requirements, artist and lender engagement, and the development of educational resources.
Southern Forest Arts received $90,000 to support travel costs for regional and remote artists, curators and artworks from across the State to participate in the Radical Futures WA Regional Visual Arts Summit at the John Curtin Gallery in Perth.
ART ON THE MOVE received $230,000 to expand the ‘SHIFT Touring Development Initiative’ and strengthen regional visual arts touring across WA.
The project will examine opportunities to strengthen regional infrastructure and build a more cohesive, efficient touring circuit. It will also fund feasibility studies for gallery upgrades at The Cannery Arts Centre and The Junction Co, helping build a stronger and more connected State-wide touring network.
As stated by Creative Industries Minister Simone McGurk:
“Arts and culture are vital to the health and identity of our communities – and that includes those in regional WA.
“Through this funding support, we’re focused on building strong regional galleries that not only showcase great art but also grow local talent and strengthen local economies.
“Whether through artist residencies, touring exhibitions or professional development opportunities, these projects will ensure more people across WA can access meaningful cultural experiences close to home.”
As stated by Regional Development Minister Stephen Dawson:
“Western Australia’s regional galleries play an important role in local communities, providing opportunities for artists, attracting visitors and enriching local cultural life.
“This investment by the Cook Labor Government will strengthen the capacity of the sector and help ensure regional audiences can continue to access high-quality visual arts experiences.”
