The Western Plains Cultural Centre’s (WPCC) regional artist program has welcomed its first exhibiting artist selected by the 2019 HomeGround Panel.
HomeGround is a development program and dedicated exhibition space within the WPCC Gallery specifically for emerging regional artists who want to expand their skills. Selected artists work alongside a curator and experience all facets of the exhibition process.
Wagga Wagga-based artist Scott Howie presents a mixed media exhibition called ‘how good is unaustralia’, which explores political and societal issues facing Australians today.
“Using a series of screen-based performances, sculptures and installations Mr Howie offers a provocative yet satirical exploration of the core values that most Australians identify with,” said WPCC Curator Mariam Abboud. “Throughout the body of work he uses slogans and Australiana memorabilia, to raise questions around individuality and belonging within the national identity.”
Cultural Development Officer Jessica Moore said Mr Howie is the perfect example of an artist who highlights the talent and skill on offer in regional NSW.
“HomeGround is a program that has been shaped and developed to provide a voice for regional artists and to allow them the space to grow as professionals,” Ms Moore said. “Through the Dubbo Regional Council Cultural Plan – SPARC, we are committed to providing opportunities not just for regional artists to develop their practice, but to provide a space for bold, explorative and thought-provoking exhibitions.
“Scott Howie asks us to question some big ideas and challenges us to question some possibly deeply held beliefs.”
‘how good is unaustralia’ opens Saturday 4 December and runs through to 6 February 2022. WPCC visitors can join the artist talk on Saturday at 2pm, tickets are free but you must register on the event listing; Artist Talk How Good is unaustralia Scott Howie
