BHP extends FORM partnership for further two years with $1.3 million in funding for Spinifex Hill Studio

The partnership between one of the Pilbara’s top Aboriginal art centres and BHP has been extended with the mining giant providing $1.3m in support over the next two years.

The focus of the funding is to expand the capacity and impact of the Spinifex Hill Studio, located on Kariyarra Country, with the investment aiming to provide professional development and training of staff and artists in art production, curation and business management.

The studio is managed by FORM and since 2014 has been home to one of the most recently-formed Aboriginal art collectives in the North West.

It presents contemporary art across a variety of styles and supports the practices of artists from many different language groups, including Kariyarra, Nyamal, Banyjima, Nyiyaparli, Yindjibarndi, Noongar, Ngarla and Nyangumarta.

BHP head of corporate affairs Meath Hammond said BHP was proud of the partnership with FORM.

“Particularly to have witnessed the evolution of Spinifex Hill Studio and the growth and achievements of its fine artists, many of whom have received national acclaim for their work,” he said.

“This renewed partnership will support the development of the next generation of artists and create additional employment opportunities, also providing new income streams through innovation and much-needed creative community events for the South Hedland community to participate in and celebrate.”

FORM chief executive Tabitha McMullan said it was through such deep and lasting partnerships between communities, industry and cultural organisations that we can create a better future.

“We are very grateful to receive this support from BHP and for their ongoing commitment to invest in the future and community of South Hedland,” she said.

Ms McMullan said the partnership with BHP extended back to 2005.

“Along with Spinifex Hill Studio, over the years BHP have also partnered with FORM on infrastructure projects such as the Port Hedland Courthouse Gallery and Visitor Centre, and events such as the West End Markets, the groundbreaking Ngurra Kuju Walyja, The Canning Stock Route Project and, most recently, the Tracks We Share project,” she said.