Esperance will welcome its newest emerging artist, thanks to another year of the Steve Cooke Scholarship

Esperance’s newest emerging artist is soon to be recognised, with applications for the 2025-26 Steve Cooke Scholarship now open. The scholarship — run by Esperance’s Cannery Arts Centre — will give the selected artist a free 12-month-membership to the centre and allow them to select and attend a wide range of Art Lab workshops from this July to June next year. Each workshop features a creative activity such as pottery, floristry, hand-punch needling, tote bag printing classes and more, aimed at emerging artists to explore a diverse range of creative skills. Cannery Arts Centre general manager Katie Witt said the scholarship encouraged more artsy locals to involve themselves in Esperance’s “vibrant” arts scene. “Esperance has a vibrant art scene — we have a lot of artists working from sculptures to ceramics to painting,” she said. “A lot of people will stop being creative once they leave school and we very much encourage people to continue exploring and engaging in arts. “For many people, art isn’t about the product, it’s about the process, and the mindfulness and that connection with others.” The centre’s previous chosen participants have reinforced the merit from taking part in the scholarship, with one artist now earning commissions for selling pottery after initially learning the skill in one of the workshops, and another leaving the course with an extensive skill set. Hannah Palmer — who was chosen for the 2024-25 Steve Cooke Scholarship — said she was grateful for the experience and had enjoyed immersing herself in the workshops. “The past year has been absolutely incredible,” she said. “I am truly grateful to the Cannery Arts Centre and the Steve Cooke Scholarship for enabling me to grow my skill set and enjoy the art community over 12 months.” Artists interested in applying for the opportunity must be at least 18-years of age and submit a one-page expression of interest via admin@canneryarts.com.au by June 6. The Steve Cooke Scholarship started in 2022 and was named after the late and beloved artist Steve Cooke, who was known for encouraging emerging artists in the region.