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Arts + Culture Update
August '24
Griffith l Leeton l Murrumbidgee l Narrandera
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WRA Workshop Wrap up
On July 5th Western Riverina Arts teamed up with Carla Gottgens - artist to present From Exposure to Execution: Get your art noticed and Dive into mural stencil techniques at the Narrandera Arts and Community Centre.
The morning's 'Exposure' session focused on grant writing, submitting expressions of interest and artist self promotion. Carla's generosity with her knowledge could not go un-noticed. Creatives in attendance left feeling empowered and ready to secure their own opportunities and grants.
The afternoon's practical 'Execution' session allowed attendees to get their hands dirty and practice mural painting techniques using spray paint, stencils and board. The WRA team loved seeing the creative energy and enthusiasm of all our attendees.
Watch this space for more workshop opportunities across the Western Riverina.
Graphic: Top banner reads: Workshop Wrap Up. Photo features WRA team and Carla Gottgens in front of Narrandera Arts and Community Centre. Photograph courtesy of Western Riverina Arts.
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On the Road with the Cad Factory
In partnership with The Cad Factory, Western Riverina Arts has been developing an Arts and Cultural Mapping project. In 2023 public community discussions were held across the council areas of Griffith, Leeton, Narrandera and Murrumbidgee Councils. In July 2024 the team undertook a series of outreach trips to assess, discuss and record the arts and cultural significance of practitioners, groups, places and spaces. The project is set for delivery in early 2025 where a map can gain insight into the region's creative communities.
Graphic: Central banner reads: Cultural Arts Mapping Tour with The Cad Factory. Photos feature Cad Factory and WRA staff at cultural and arts locations across the Western Riverina. Photographs courtesy of Western Riverina Arts.
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Launch of ‘Cultural Tourism in Regional NSW’
The Regional Arts Network, being the fifteen Regional Arts Development Organisations (RADOs) of NSW of which Western Riverina Arts is one, launched its specially commissioned report on Cultural Tourism in Regional NSW on Sydney on Friday 26th July 2024. The report commissioned Patternmakers who worked with RADO Network, and was supported by Create NSW. The report provides insight into the scale of regional cultural tourism and opportunities to support its development. The result of cultural tourism experiences across regional NSW provides the largest picture of cultural tourism to date with some major findings on the economic magnitude of the regional creative industry
Our WRA team is proud to have been able to inform the report, representing the Western Riverina Arts community.
You can read the summary report online here, or the full report here.
Photographs: Feature WRA staff alongside RADO staff from across NSW. Photographs courtesy of Regional Arts NSW and Western Riverina Arts.
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Lillardia Briggs-Houston wins at NIFA
At this years National Indigenous Fashion Awards (NIFA) Western Riverina Artist Lillardia Briggs-Houston was announced the winner of The Wearable Art Award. The award celebrates design, artistry, construction, wearability and cultural expression. In recognition of Lillardia’s work, the artist will receive $5000 cash prize from Eastland.
“Lillardia’s headpiece, while rich in cultural significance, exudes modernity. The craftsmanship and precision in her work are evident, yet the piece’s beauty and wearability truly stand out. It possesses a strong editorial appeal. Lillardia is such a deserving winner in this category.” – Nimmi Premaratne, 2024 NIFA Judge.
To read more about Lillardia's piece, and the other 2024 NIFA winners, head to NIFA 2024 Winners
Photograph: Lillardia Briggs-Houston sits besides her wearable art. Photograph courtesy of Western Riverina Arts.
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Ngiyang Podcast Episode Two Out Now!
Are you following Bernard Higgins work on the Ngiyang podcast?
Get your next instalment here!
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Ngiyang
Wiradyuri language is integral to Wiradyuri cultural identity. Our language is our culture. Ngiyang (‘language’) is the story of how the Wiradyuri language is being reclaimed by the Wiradyuri people of central NSW and beyond. Hear from Uncle Stan Grant Senior, who has dedicated his life's work to…
www.sbs.com.au |
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At Western Riverina Arts, we are excited to spotlight Elijah, our Creative Officer and a proud Wiradjuri man. Elijah is a dynamic film practitioner and digital artist who blends technology with creativity to craft transformative art experiences. With a strong foundation in community engagement, he co-founded Miil Miil Productions with Bernard Higgins—a venture dedicated to using film to preserve and revitalise Aboriginal languages.
Elijah’s impressive credentials include representing First Nations youth at the United Nations’ twelfth session of the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and serving as a member of the NSW Aboriginal Land Council Youth Advisory Committee. His work spans national and international collaborations, reflecting his commitment to social justice.
As he continues to develop digital arts initiatives at Western Riverina Arts, Elijah is focused on creating projects that support long-term employment and economic sustainability in the digital arts across the Western Riverina. His art enhances healing environments by seamlessly integrating technology and creativity.
Elijah is a captivating speaker, and we can’t wait to see what he presents at the TEDxGriffith event. Don’t miss the chance to hear him speak— get your tickets now!
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WRA partnered initiative Horizons music focused mentor group had their official meet up on Friday 26 July.
Imagine this, a group of young people who have never met each other in person before. And have never been in a recording studio before. Vendulka gave them space to collaborate on creating a track.
Recorded in one day, the track is a beautiful rough diamond.
Listen here.
Featured are Jack Fuller (ANW), Diya Bhengra (ERA), Lochlaan O'dubhir (SEA). |
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The TEDxGriffith theme of 'home is where the heart is' celebrates the importance of home, in the literal sense, but also as a place where we feel safe, secure, and connected. Our speakers are community voices with unique lived experiences, that share a passion and optimism for the places and spaces we call home.
Their talks cover a wide range of subjects but are grounded in connection and community, and a deep desire to inspire a better world. They are a testament to the spirit of regional communities.
Tickets are limited, so get yours today!
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Night At The Museum - Bioluminescence at Griffith Pioneer Park Museum. The museum will be seen as never seen before at a night-time event on Saturday 7 September. Projection artists will bring vivid colours to the historic buildings in a showcase of dazzling technology. Entry to the event from 7-9pm on Saturday 7 September is by gold coin donation and attendees are required to wear suitable footwear to navigate unsealed pathways at night. Snacks, refreshments and soup will be available for purchase.
Night At The Museum is supported by Griffith Pioneer Park Museum, Red Earth Ecology, Western Riverina Arts and Create NSW through funding from the NSW Government.
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Let Me Be Myself: The Story of Anne Frank
Step into the past and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring story of Anne Frank's life.
Produced by Anne Frank Exhibition Australia, Let Me Be Myself: The Story of Anne Frank is a must-see exhibition that traces Anne's journey from her birth in 1929 to her tragic end in 1945.
Designed for all ages, the exhibition offers an unparalleled exploration of Anne's experiences during the Holocaust and her enduring legacy. Discover Anne through large-scale images, a replica of the Anne Frank House, excerpts from her diary, and wartime objects.
Aimed at providing audiences with insights into issues of prejudice and discrimination, both then and now, Let Me Be Myself: The Story of Anne Frank is an excellent opportunity to engage with history and reflect on the relevance of Anne Frank's story in today's world.
Don't miss this remarkable exhibition on display until September 7, 2024.
Tickets available here, or at the door.
Proudly sponsored by Rabobank, Anne Frank House, Hartford Partners and educational partner Gandel Foundation.
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Significance 2.0 Update
The Australian Government is encouraging people involved in the collections and cultural heritage sector to have their say on an update to Significance 2.0: a guide to assessing the significance of collections. The guide aims to help collecting organisations, collections professionals and the broader public to determine the significance of cultural and heritage objects. Produced in 2009, the guide needs to be refreshed to reflect changes in collecting attitudes and procedures that have emerged over the past 15 years. Feedback gathered through the consultation process will inform the development of a new and valuable contemporary guide to assessing the significance of the cultural objects held in collections in Australia and around the world.
Written submissions close 18 August; To learn more and submit.
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Artist of the Month
Jason Richardson - Art Builds Empathy
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Meeting Jason Richardson at Griffith's Pioneer Park Museum is like stepping into a world of stories, both told and untold. Jason's enthusiasm for the museum is palpable as he recounts tales about the park, from the quirky addition of a pizza oven in a drop-log building to the fascinating characters who have shaped its history. Preparing for his final major event at the park, the Bioluminescence Project, Jason reflects on the myriad lessons learned from years of collaborating with diverse artists.
Jason's creative journey has deep roots, inspired largely by his mother, Dawn. Jason tells me about his perplexion over Dawn's operatic lessons, saying, "In hindsight I see how social it is to make art and the opportunities to understand the variety of meanings and practices, whether they're technical or contextual or personal or whatever." Dawn's adventurous spirit and artistic flair exposed him to a world where creativity was celebrated. Her belief that art builds empathy by allowing one to see through another's eyes has resonated with Jason throughout his career. From her seemingly superfluous opera singing lessons to her eclectic taste in music, including Wendy Carlos' "Switched on Bach," Dawn has been a significant influence on Jason's artistic development.
Jason’s resilience and creativity have been bolstered by his supportive family, particularly his partner Jo Roberts. Navigating the often-harsh realities of life with Jo by his side has only deepened his appreciation for the importance of a strong support network. Unable to claim all credit himself Jason tells me that he is "fortunate to have a supporting family, particularly [his] partner Jo Roberts. After being together for more than two decades [he is] sure that many of the ideas attributed to me are the result of her collaboration." From his mother Dawn to Jo and his many artistic collaborators and friends, Jason's resilience is a testament to the power of community and the vital role of loved ones in fostering success.
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Armed with three university degrees and several TAFE certificates, Jason's strong literacy skills have proven invaluable for grant applications and opening doors to opportunities in publishing and curatorial roles. His wide-ranging artistic endeavours have earned him numerous awards, underscoring his versatility and dedication. Jason has curated solo exhibitions at Griffith Regional Art Gallery and Wagga Art Gallery, showcasing his ability to create compelling and diverse artistic experiences.
Currently, Jason is deeply involved in the Haiku Down Under event, where he explores the intersection of short poems and exhibitions. This event highlights the potential of haiku to inspire both visual art and music. Jason's presentation reflects on his exhibitions and collaborations, particularly with musicians in Italy and France, demonstrating the rich, cross-cultural dialogue that haiku can facilitate. You can learn more about this event and Jason's participation here.
In addition, Jason is organising a landmark projection event at the Griffith Pioneer Park Museum on 7 September. This event, part of the Bioluminescence Project, will feature a variety of projection art, bringing an unprecedented scale of visual artistry to the region. Not to be missed, the project, in collaboration with Atlas of Life, focuses on the mesmerising natural phenomenon of bioluminescence and aims to blend art and science in a spectacular display.
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As Jason transitions to pursue a Master of Teaching, he looks forward to a new chapter. Proving that those that can do, teach, Jason’s passion for education and creativity promises to inspire future generations. Highlighting to me the benefits of being an artist in the Riverina, Jason notes the opportunities available due to less competition and the freedom to innovate. He urges fellow artists to embrace their distinctive creative paths and seek collaborative experiences.
Looking for Jason’s various works? You can find his music on bassling.com, his updates on Facebook, and his videos on YouTube and Witchmedia. For writings, visit his blog at ShowcaseJase, and for music downloads, see Bassling on Bandcamp.
Jason’s journey, from a curator to an educator, is a testament to the enduring power of creativity and the importance of sharing knowledge. As he moves forward, his story will undoubtedly continue to inspire and influence the artistic community in the Riverina and beyond. For now, this writer wishes to leave our readers with Jason’s own words: "Creativity is your human birthright and no one can do self-expression like you. Everyone should have their own creative practise."
Written by Zooey Korhonen, Western Riverina Arts Communications Officer
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Calling for Entries
The Fruits of Labour: Celebrating 100 years of Irrigation Research and the CSIRO
Artists are invited to contribute to this Community Exhibition, highlighting the legacy of the CSIRO in Griffith. The Australian Citrus Research Station was established in Griffith in 1924, and later became part of the CSIR and then the CSIRO in 1949, focussing on Irrigation and Water Research. This exhibition will showcase CSIRO memorabilia and artworks depicting its importance to the community. Please contact Griffith Regional Art Gallery for details on how to be involved.
Entry form
Information sheet
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Griffith Art Collective
Calling all Griffith Artists!
Let's CONNECT, COMMUNICATE AND COLLABORATE!
IT IS TIME! We have so many beautifully talented and passionate artists here in Griffith but alas many in the wider Griffith community are either not aware of this, nor celebrate this.
Whether you are a professional artist, art teacher, art enthusiast or just want to connect with other likeminded creatives then we would like to hear from you!
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$10,000 Windmill Trust Scholarship for Regional NSW Artists
The Windmill Trust, together with Regional Arts NSW, is pleased to announce that the 2024 Windmill Trust Scholarship for Regional NSW Artists has opened for applications.
This award opens up avenues for regional artists seeking to further their professional development, exhibition opportunities or deepen research with a $10,000 scholarship.
‘The energy and creativity coming from the NSW rural and regional arts community sector even in times of challenge continues to impress and inspire us,’ said Victoria Weekes on behalf of the Windmill Trust Management Committee.
Applications and more information here.
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Varuna Residency
Writing NSW awards a single one-week Varuna residency to members of Writing NSW for manuscripts, plays or poem collections ready for the next stage of development.
The fellowship includes a week’s residency at Varuna, with full board and accommodation including a prepared evening meal, uninterrupted time to write in your own private studio, and the companionship of your fellow writers.
More information and apply here.
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Horizons Online Session
Introducing Louise Buckingham from Arts Law, the next speaker for the Horizons Guest Speaker Series!
Being in the creative industries can be extremely fun and rewarding, but there are times when it is important to legally protect yourself, your work and the people you work with.
Join this free @artslawaustralia session hosted by Horizons on Thursday 5 September at 5pm, and learn more about your rights as a creative, copyright and contracts.
Register now!
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Calling Regional Artists! Want to go on Tour?
MusicNSW is looking for tour-ready original artists from across regional NSW that want to connect with other artists, grow new audiences, learn more about touring - and of course - hit the road to play shows!
Selected artists will participate in one of five regional tours. Participating artists will build touring skills and experience, with support and resources from our Regional Coordinators. MusicNSW will provide a financial subsidy to cover artist fees and contribute to marketing costs. You will also get an album of professional photos from one of your shows.
Click here for more information and to apply.
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Urana Art Show Call for Entries
Artists are invited to submit work to the annual Urana Courthouse Art Exhibition and Sale to be held 17 - 22 October. In celebration of its 25th year, the competition has extended the categories and increased the prize money! The categories are Oils, Acrylic, Watercolour/pastel, Mixed Media and Under 18 as well as the People's Choice Award.
Image: detail of Billabong by Michael Morgan.
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Artist Giveaway from BLAKPrint
Are you an Aboriginal artist looking to showcase your designs on t-shirts and merchandise?
Here's an exciting opportunity for you!
BLAKPrint are dedicated to amplifying First Nations voices and celebrating Aboriginal art. This August, they are thrilled to launch an exclusive giveaway designed just for Aboriginal artists like you.
Head to our website for more information.
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