A capsule exhibition of works from the state's art collection will tour six regional venues across 2019-20 including the Collie Art Gallery.
The tour is part of $8 million Regional Exhibition Touring Boost election commitment to connect regional audiences with the state's art collection through the Freighting Ideas project delivered in partnership by ART ON THE MOVE and the Art Gallery of Western Australia.
The project increases the capacity of regional galleries to present a wide variety of works and involves the local community in developing arts activity and participating in broader conversations.
The first exhibition that will host the project will open at the Katanning Library and Art Gallery on April 13, 2019.
How Did I Get Here? will present works from the Art Gallery of Western Australia collection by some of the country's most engaging and accomplished photographic and video artists, alongside complementary works from Katanning's local collection that reflect and expand on the theme of identity.
These works will be displayed alongside complementary works from Katanning's local collection that reflect and expand on the theme of identity.
After the display in Katanning, the pieces will travel to other regional galleries in Western Australia including; the Ningaloo Centre in Exmouth, the Bunbury Regional Art Gallery, the Carnarvon Library and Gallery, the East Pilbara Art Centre, and the Geraldton Regional Art Centre.
The tour itinerary is:
- Katanning Library and Gallery - April 13, 2019 to May 11, 2019;
- Collie Art Gallery - July 19, 2019 to September 1, 2019;
- Ningaloo Centre, Exmouth - September 13, 2019 to October 13, 2019;
- Bunbury Regional Art Gallery - January 17, 2020 to March 1, 2020;
- Carnarvon Library and Gallery - May 15, 2020 to June 19, 2020;
- East Pilbara Art Centre - July 3, 2020 to August 9, 2020; and
- Geraldton Regional Art Centre - August 21, 2020 to September 12, 2020.
Collie Art Gallery coordinator Payam Parishanzadeh said it was wonderful to be part of the tour.
"It's great that people living in regional areas have an opportunity to see some of the state's works in their towns," he said.
"It's a great initiative and it's great for the regional art galleries to get support and to make our galleries known to outsiders."
Culture and the Arts Minister David Templeman said it was the first time in 20 years works from the state's art collection will tour to regional Western Australia.
"The role the arts play in regional communities cannot be understated. It supports social, cultural and economic growth," he said.
Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan said it was a fantastic opportunity for local communities to take part.
"This first capsule exhibition delivers remarkable works from the state's art collection," she said.