Kaya from the CEO – Dr Pilar Kasat’s February Update
Regional Arts WA
Your monthly dose of stories, news and funding. From Regional Arts WA
I hope you had a wonderful break over the summer and Birak seasons. As I write this, I’m still feeling energised by the indelible creative spirit I’ve witnessed across Western Australia in just these first few weeks of the year.
News Roundup
I was thrilled to hear that The Nationals WA made a significant election commitment to our arts sector (should they be elected) through their ‘Making a Difference for Regional Arts’ announcement. This is more than just policy – it’s a recognition of the vital role that the arts sector plays in our regional communities. The Nationals WA’s embrace of our regional strategy means practical, well-defined support that will help our creative communities thrive.
Image: The Mid West Creative Ecology Summit, photo by Dragonfly Media
Earlier this month, I had the privilege of attending the Mid West Creative Ecology Summit, where over 100 artists and creatives came together for a day of a day of rich conversation, bold ideas, and collective visioning for the future. The depth of discussions, creative camaraderie, and shared vision for innovation laid a strong foundation for what promises to be continued growth in the creative ecosystem.
Image: Boyup Brook Music Muster 2025
From there, I headed to the Boyup Brook Country Music Muster, where the federally funded Regional Arts Fund supported an incredible lineup of regional Western Australian artists. As an independent arts organisation, we are incredibly passionate about helping artists thrive in regional areas while ensuring communities receive the full benefits of local arts and cultural activities. Being at the Muster, it was an honour to see these artists flourish with the support and exposure they deserve.
On a recent news note, an independent review has been announced regarding Creative Australia’s decision to rescind Khaled Sabsabi’s invitation to represent Australia at the 2026 Venice Biennale. As advocates for artistic independence, this review is crucial for maintaining the integrity of our arts sector.
The peer review system, designed to protect artistic integrity from undue influence, is a cornerstone of fair and transparent arts selection. When such established processes are overturned, it creates uncertainty and undermines confidence in the system.
Our arts community voiced significant concerns about the process behind Khaled’s removal. Standing with our community, we call for transparency and a swift resolution to restore confidence in the peer-review process.
And now, for the practical part – funding!
This time of the year is a peak period for funding across Australia, and at RAWA, we currently have our four funding opportunities open, including RAF Project Grants, RAF Quick Response Grants, and the Next Gen Arts Grant. Details of key grants here.
Image: Helen Ansell presenting at the Mid West Creative Ecology Summit, photo by Dragonfly Media
Artist of the Month
Finally, don’t miss our featured artist of the month, Helen Ansell, whose quintessentially Western Australian paintings of local flora and fauna are deeply influenced by her time living in remote Aboriginal communities. Based in Mullewa, Helen’s distinctive style has evolved into large-scale public art and fashion collections that celebrate the unique beauty of our regional landscapes.
Have a wonderful month.
Pilar
