Breadth of talent uncovered at exhibition

Art groups in the Karratha area have come together to put on their first joint exhibition showcasing the breadth of artistic talent in the community.

The City of Karratha Artist Showcase opened in the Karratha library foyer on Saturday, April 30, the product of a first-time collaboration between the Dampier Arts Studio, Karratha Art Group, Roebourne artists and Cheeditha Art Group.

On show are artworks from a variety of media, including drawings, paintings, assemblage, ceramics and glassworks, from 28 local artists aged from pre-school to 78.

Karratha Art Group artist Jan Malkin said she came up with the idea for the exhibition as a way to promote community recognition of home-grown artistic talent.

“I was amazed at the Cossack Art Awards when all the local artists appeared,” she said. “Where had all these creative souls been hiding?”

“Time for a change, time to fly and be seen and appreciated more often and so the idea was born for the show.”

Ms Malkin said it was the first time the art groups have exhibited together, as usually local artists showcase their works individually or as one group only.

Dampier Arts Studio chairwoman Tanya Montgomery said the exhibition stood out for its 3D artworks and mix of experienced artists and new talent.

She said the art groups were pleased with attendance numbers at the opening and encouraged residents to consider joining one to gain new skills and meet like-minded people.

“We’re wrapped with the response... as it highlights the eagerness of the community to support local art at grassroots level,” she said.

The artworks can be seen in the Karratha library foyer during usual opening hours until June 8.