artsource workshops combine lessons on art
techniques and marketing skills


Participants learn about the use of different
materials during the workshops

Indigenous artists based around Roebourne are being lent an expert hand to capitalise on the growing market for Pilbara art.

A series of professional workshops are underway with local Indigenous art groups to learn new techniques along with marketing skills.

Artists of all levels are learning about the use of different materials, colour mixing techniques, stretching and framing canvas, photographing their work, compiling CVs and portfolios and effective marketing.

The workshops are being delivered by artsource, the peak visual arts body in Western Australia, in partnership with Rio Tinto Iron Ore.

Rio Tinto Iron Ore Manager of Towns and Partnerships, Dani Nazzari, says the partnership with artsource is part of a big picture approach to developing Indigenous art in the Pilbara.

"These workshops will help local artists hone their skills and bring more unique Pilbara art to life," says Dani.

Lesley Munro, an acclaimed Western Australian artist who has exhibited around Australia and the world, is conducting the workshops with Glenn Pilkington from artsource.

Glenn, who is responsible for the regional and Indigenous programs at artsource, says the workshops will help artists to understand the art market and how galleries operate, as well as helping them develop new skills.

"It has been a great opportunity to work with local artists in one week blocks during the year.  Lesley has developed strong bonds with many artists and it’s exciting to see artists start to use some of the colour techniques and other skills from the initial workshop," says Glenn.

Four workshops will be held in 2007 for artists from five local art groups including Bujee Nhoor Pu, Warba Mirdawaji, Murranghai Buai, Yinjaa Barni and Warawarni-gu.

Until now, the remote nature of the region has often meant limited access for artists to different materials, techniques and marketing ideas.  The artsource partnership will help overcome this isolation.