Colours of country shine in exhibition

A Yindjibarndi artist from Cheeditha community was named this year’s signature artist at the 15th annual Colours of our Country exhibition in Perth. Signature artist Wendy Warrie, whose piece After High Tide was used to promote the event, began painting in 2001. Warrie’s signature piece took two days to complete and featured a rich red colour palette and detailed line work inspired by memories of going to the beach and looking for cockle shells and crabs once the tides go out. The exhibition was held at the Central Park building in Perth’s CBD and displayed 170 Aboriginal artworks from the Pilbara showcasing the stories and customs of traditional owners. Independent artists from Roebourne and Tom Price with artists from the Yinjaa-Barni Art Centre, Wangaba Art Group and Cheeditha Art Group were among the 39 people who had their art shown. New as part of this year’s exhibition was an online gallery allowing art to be showcased to a national audience as well as a fashion parade featuring garments created from the Roebourne artists’ designs. Warrie said she felt proud to be the signature artist and enjoyed trying new techniques and styles. “It gives me time to myself and I learn new colours,” she said. The exhibition gives artists the opportunity for their work to be sold, with 2504 artworks generating more than $2.5 million for Pilbara artists over the 15 year history. Wrapped Creations event director David Yakas said he was honoured to work with Pilbara artists to create the exhibition. “Providing the opportunity to showcase our talented artists in Perth and allow the people of Perth to be able to take a piece of the Pilbara home is something quite special,” he said. Rio Tinto iron ore chief executive Ivan Vella said he was humbled by the privilege to be able to host the event and grateful to the traditional owner artists and art centres for their participation. “I encourage everyone to take the opportunity to gain an invaluable glimpse into the lives and culture of Pilbara traditional owners via the stories they share through their art,” he said. Cheeditha Art Group artist Carrie McDowell thanked Rio Tinto for providing the opportunity for all art groups to help generate sales. The exhibition will run until Friday in Perth and December 6 online.