Diverse artistic voices from across the State are being celebrated with the opening of The Alternative Archive survey exhibition in Perth.
The exhibition will encourage audiences to engage with regional artists' histories, storytelling and local mythologies.
It is a culmination of the Alternative Archive project, a 2019 anthology of artworks which examined regional artists' relationships to their local communities.
The new exhibition will present about 45 works from the Alternative Archive project, which previously showcased as micro exhibitions at 13 regional locations throughout Western Australia.
It includes artworks from Craig Allsop, Charmaine Green, Violet Samson, Monique Tippett, Ben Galmirrl Ward and many more.
The artworks will return to the regions next year, as part of the State Government's Regional Exhibition Touring Boost initiative delivered by ART ON THE MOVE and the Art Gallery of Western Australia.
The tour will be accompanied by professional development and education programs, artists' talks and other activities.
The Alternative Archive survey exhibition, curated by Chris Malcolm and Anna Louise Richardson, is at the John Curtin Gallery in Bentley until July 30, 2021.
As stated by Culture and the Arts Minister David Templeman:
"It's fantastic to see the Alternative Archive exhibition open at last, as it was delayed by a year due to COVID-19 restrictions.
"This is a unique exhibition, featuring 39 artists, who all give their own insight into their local histories, storytelling and mythologies, using a range of mediums.
"More broadly, the exhibition will increase our understanding of the arts ecology, practices, and conditions of regional art making in Western Australia."
As stated by Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan:
"Art produced in the regions helps to give WA its unique identity and opportunities like Alternative Archive give regional artists the exposure they deserve.
"This exhibition will travel to audiences across the State next year, giving regional audiences the chance to enjoy these diverse artworks."
