Source : PERTHNOW NEWS
Six local artists have been selected from a record field of applicants for the City of Stirling’s 2026 artist in residence program.
Now in its fourth iteration, the program provides artists with a space to develop their practice while activating community spaces and engaging residents.
From July 20-September 27, the six successful artists will take up residence in five studios in community facilities in Scarborough, Tuart Hill and Watermans Bay.
The artists represent a range of artistic practices, including painting, ceramics, oral storytelling, photography, multidisciplinary arts practice, and paper sculpture.
Ceramic artist May Kee Cheah will be based at the Scarborough Community Centre. Claire Davenhall and Amanda Kendle will also be there, exploring storytelling through sound and the visual arts.
Painter Sheree Dohnt will take up residence at the Courtyard Studio at Osborne Community Hub in Tuart Hill, exploring women’s experiences through her work.
Paper artist Rebecca Ryan will be at the Mount Flora Regional Museum in Watermans Bay, along with ceramic artist Jenni Vacca.
Stirling mayor Mark Irwin said he believed the record interest in the program was a result of the city’s “strong and steady support” of the arts.
“Artists add colour and creativity to our community, and we’re lucky to have so many talented artists wanting to undertake a residency in the city of Stirling,” Mr Irwin said.
“The artist in residence program is an opportunity for the community to engage with artists as they work and get involved in the creative process.”
The city said all artists intended to explore themes of memory, place and lived experiences through material-based work, storytelling, and site-responsive projects.
The artists will host workshops and an open studio day, followed by a public exhibition of works created during their residencies.
For more information about the artists and the program, head to the City of Stirling website at stirling.wa.gov.au.
