Wilurarra Creative

ARTISTIC DIRECTOR, WILURARRA CREATIVE, Warburton, Ngaanyatjarra Lands WA 2008-2011

 
Wilurarra Creative is a one-of-a-kind program. It facilitates a diverse range of creative programs and provides space for self-directed learning for Ngaanyatjarra people aged 17-30. Wilurarra Creative delivers programs in visual art, music, fashion and performance and cultural maintenance. Wilurarra Creative is nationally recognised as best practice in very remote Indigenous community cultural development and demonstrated sustained success in one of the most high-risk and challenging work environments in Australia.
 
As Artistic Director, I was responsible for overall organisational and regional leadership; ongoing engagement and capacity building using the arts; sourcing funding; reporting; advocacy; and managing the diverse staff team. Highlights of this role included building a strong and effective team of Ngaanyatjarra and non-Ngaanyatjarra staff; initiating an intercultural creative health conference; touring art and fashion events throughout the Ngaanyatjarra Lands; establishing several music studios; developed a fashion and performance program; presenting Wilja Quiltja at the 2010 RAA Summit in Launcestion and collaborating with other arts organisations develop locally-engaging, culturally-appropriate new programs.