Earlier this week, Nat from the RAWA team hit the Goldfields to engage, learn, listen and have lots of yaps for the Social Fabric Project. 

Social Fabric is RAWA’s collaborative two-year cultural equity program in the Goldfields-Esperance region, designed to amplify voices that are often under-represented, especially First Nations and multicultural communities. This community-led, place-based project aims to co-create safe, inclusive ways to engage and share culturally relevant stories of solidarity. Learn more about the project here: Regional Arts WA 

From the Goldfields’ red dirt to its art deco streets, from sandalwood in bloom to sculptures that speak (literally!) – check out some of the activities the fieldtrip had instore: 

Gathering for a Social Fabric focus group yarn, with participants Dionie Johnson, Maihi Nikora, Tristan Nikora, Mireia Gonzalez, Tendai Magadza and Debbie Carmody — powerfully facilitated by Edith Cowan University researcher and Whadjuk Noongar/Badimia Yamatji woman, Olivia Slatter. The conversation was rich, thoughtful, and full of perspectives that will help shape the research aspect of the Social Fabric Project.

Strolling the streets on an artist-led public art tour, we were guided by Debbie & Tina Carmody, Monika Dvorak (Bush Blossom Gallery), and Brent Johnston at St Barbara Square as part of the new Kal City Centre First Nations Art Project. Their stories and insights brought each artwork to life, offering a powerful and inspiring glimpse into culture, connection, and creativity woven through Kalgoorlie’s heart.

Stopping to admire sandalwood and wattle in bloom across Karlkurla Bushland, we soaked up the colour, scent, and calming presence of the land.

Stepping into the Museum of the Goldfields for the BELONG exhibition, we were immersed in Martine Perret, Nikola & Edie Ulrich, and Jonathan Mustard’s powerful storytelling of language, culture, and connection. An immersive journey of sound, image, and memory, it reminded us of the enduring strength and beauty of Aboriginal languages.

 Seeing the incredible artwork by finalists and winners of the Kalgoorlie-Boulder Art Prize at the Goldfields Arts Centre (GAC). A highlight of the exhibition is work by Anangu, Spinifex Artist and Social Fabric Project Officer, Nyndjeri Debbie Carmody (just pointing out, People’s Choice Award is still open).

Getting a behind the scenes look into the studio of GAC artist-in-residence Jose Bacarreza, a Chilean artist who uses light, contrast and dramatic scenes to create large scale oil paintings that are both surreal and inviting.

Sharing stories, laughs (and cake) at a morning tea & artist catch-up hosted by the legends at ArtGold with Jose Bacarreza, Ena Pehlivanovic (ArtGold Staff), Natalie de Rozario (RAWA), Mireia Gonzalez (SF Project Officer) and Mellissa Drummond (ArtGold Chair). 

If you’re in Kalgoorlie, be sure to check out the incredible art we experienced on this trip. Thank you, Goldfields, for the kindness, creativity, yarns and hospitality! Until next time. 

Artwork by Nynderi Debbie Carmody

Regional Arts WA presents the Social Fabric Project in collaboration with Esperance Community Arts, Esperance Tjaltjraak Native Title Aboriginal Corporation, and Tjuma Pulka Media Aboriginal Corporation. The project is funded by the Australian Government’s Regional Arts Fund Regional Arts Australia, the Minderoo Foundation, Lotterywest, and Healthway to promote positive health outcomes for our communities.