- 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
As stated by 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."
As stated by 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."
