Port Hedland’s Showcase in Pixels finalist Samantha Boon’s work to be displayed in Yagan Square

Port Hedland artist Samantha Boon will have her work displayed in the heart of the Perth CBD as part of the Statewide 2022 Showcase in Pixels competition.

The competition is organised by the WA Local Government Association and exhibits artworks from WA local governments on the 45-metre high digital tower at Yagan Square.

Boon’s work, which embodies the past, present and future identity of Port Hedland and was created on behalf of Portside Town Team and The Junction Co., has been selected as the local entry for the competition.

It will be displayed as a representation of Port Hedland from September 19 to October 9.

Boon said her illustration was based on the rich history of the town and its diverse culture, mining industry and waterways.

She said her work was inspired by community initiative Portside, heart of the West End, which aims to showcase and activate the Port Hedland townsite.

“Drawing on the Portside identity and colour palette, the composition captures all of Hedland’s beauty, both natural and man-made. Blending pattern and shapes with simple illustration, the image portrays the past, present and future of Port Hedland,” she said.

Town of Port Hedland mayor Peter Carter said Boon had created a vibrant artwork.

“The selection panel commented on how fun, bright and bold the design artwork is, clearly representing our port, marine life and amazing sunsets. Ms Boon’s use of colour, creativity, composition and artistic merit were all mentioned by the panel,” he said.

“Submitted within the professional category, the colour palette and form incorporates brand elements of Portside, heart of the West End, the place planning revitalisation project which has brought Port Hedland’s West End to life thanks to the work of The Junction Co.

“Council are proud to support public art initiatives such as the Showcase in Pixels competition, delivering on the strategic outcomes of the town’s arts and culture strategy.”

The winners of the Statewide competition will be announced on October 3.