Colour me happy

29 September 2008

Art from across the Pilbara has found a new home after record sales at this year’s Colours of Our Country Aboriginal art exhibition.

Supported by Rio Tinto and running for its third consecutive year, the exhibition ran for two weeks in the foyer of Central Park, in the Perth CBD.

A total of 154 pieces from 34 artists were showcased. More than 75% of the art pieces were sold, while several artists received commissions to undertake further work. All proceeds from the sales go directly back to the Pilbara artists.

A piece by Yindjibarndi artist Allery Sandy was donated by Rio Tinto to the Art Gallery of WA for inclusion in the state Aboriginal collection.

“This has helped give many of us confidence. It is such a satisfying feeling to see all your hard work being displayed and enjoyed by people,” Ms Sandy said.

Seven of the featured artists travelled to Perth to attend the opening of the exhibition. During their trip they made time to meet with Aboriginal leaders from Kwinana, and plans were made to continue to build this relationship in the future.

Rio Tinto Chief executive Iron Ore Sam Walsh said the company was proud to stage the exhibition as part of its commitment to providing opportunities for Aboriginal people in the Pilbara, home to most of Rio Tinto’s iron ore operations.

“We are working hard to increase the direct employment of Aboriginal people from the Pilbara within Rio Tinto, but we are also fortunate to be able to help create initiatives like this which support the development of sustainable enterprises,” Mr Walsh said.

“Our partnerships and investment in the arts is a way to build a lasting legacy alongside economic development for the communities in which we operate.”