The Ville - Autumn Winter 2023

the VILLE

Kaya

It’s a privilege to be working on this land and the City of Melville staff pay our respects to the Bibbulmun and Whadjuk communities and thank them for their care and generosity.

Welcome to our second edition of The Ville.

Melville is a fantastic cultural hub. We’re making stories and experiences here that connect our community to people and places, near and far. The Ville shines a spotlight on some of the diverse, joyful, and fascinating events that are right here for you to explore.

In this edition you’ll discover new music, exhibitions, storytelling, local history, art awards, learning resources, children’s programs, public art trails, and much, much more. Most of our program is free and we welcome everyone, wherever you live, to come and be a part of it.

Melville Midwinter is becoming an annual favourite, one to mark down with passionate certainty in your calendar. Other highlights include local artists on show during Melville Open Studios, the sublime music of Tender is the Night, and fantastic gallery openings at Goolugatup Heathcote and Wireless Hill Museum – but there’s so much to see and do, subscribe to our Arts e-news to get updates and reminders of upcoming events.

So please enjoy reading The Ville and keep it close across the cooler months to remind you what’s coming up in 2023.

See you out and about soon in Melville.

Leeann Reid & Pete Stone

City of Melville | Manager Cultural ServiCeS & Creative ProduCer

The City of Melville acknowledges the Bibbulmun people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which the City stands today and pays its respects to the Whadjuk people, and Elders both past and present.

of Melville

VENTURE OUT BEYOND YOUR COMFORTS THIS AUTUMN AND WINTER. YOU MIGHT BE SURPRISED AT WHAT YOU FIND.

City

nagolik Bibbulmen Nyungar ally-maga milgebar gardukung naga boordjar-il narnga allidja yugow yeye wer ali kaanya Whadjack Nyungar wer netingar quadja wer burdik.

Above Leeann Reid & Pete Stone in the Canning Bridge Precinct, captured by Natasja Kremers Cover Melville Midwinter 2022, captured by Miles Noel

PERFORMANCE P4

As the days grow shorter and the nights grow cooler, the City doesn’t sleep, it erupts with magical, memorable experiences.

CREATIVE ARTS P8

Melville is home to a thriving and growing creative arts industry. Find out more about engaging with and immersing yourself in Melville’s artistic community.

RECONCILIATION P6

Meet our First Nations Engagement Coordinator Leanne Woods and find out how you can get involved in the City’s reconciliation events and learning.

PLACES & SPACES P12

Experience the awe, wonder and everchanging landscapes of our cultural precincts – discover exhibitions, cosy corners, wildflowers and more.

CALENDAR P10

No need to hibernate for the autumn winter months, there’s plenty to see and do. Grab your diary, friends and family, and embrace the seasons.

CHILDREN P18

Our creative children’s program is simply bursting with fun and activities.

Winter wonders

There is something special about rugging up in the cooler months and getting out of the house to share in extraordinary moments of performance and connection with your friends, family, and community.

Whether it’s music, visual arts or spoken word, our autumn and winter events promise to inspire, warm, thrill and entertain you.

MELVILLE MIDWINTER

The winter solstice is calling as we invite you to Dyoondalup Point Walter to enjoy a firelit magical journey. Starting at dusk, share in wintery treats by the fire, and as the sun goes down, follow the lanterns as they lead you to captivating, spectacular performances across the hill.

Expect a wide variety from song, to dance and storytelling that will move and stir the depths of your winter heart. Make your way at your own pace through the stations and come together for a final piece by the bilya (river). To complete the experience, we invite you to join us by taking a leap off the jetty into the beautiful waters of the river.

Bring your family or friends or come alone, this is an event like no other that gives us space to reflect on the year that’s been and the year to come.

For full program details and to register for updates, visit melvillecity.com.au/midwinter

As the days grow shorter and the nights grow cooler, our programs bend and shift with the elements, bringing you magical, memorable experiences.

TENDER IS THE NIGHT

Tender is the Night showcases the best of WA original songwriters and reimagines their songs through the talents of local composers and a live string quartet.

Imagine a captivating musical soundtrack unfolding before your ears and eyes. Each performance features a suite of songs like you’ve never experienced before, an aural delight of incredible works coming together for the first time live on stage with The Tender Strings Quartet.

One of the many delights of Tender is the Night, is packing the perfect accompaniments to enjoy alongside the feast of plucked and soaring strings elevating our most loved WA performers. Cushions, rugs, drinks, and feasts are encouraged as you settle in for an evening of stirring revelations and sweet surprises.

To find out more, visit melvillecity.com.au/tenderisthenight

GOOLUGATUP SOUNDS

If you’re looking for something new in live music, chances are you’ll find it at Goolugatup Sounds. A performance program curated by musician and composer Lyndon Blue, the series brings exploratory musical artists, both local and national, into view.

Each performance is curated to sit alongside an exhibition opening at Goolugatup Heathcote gallery. Often collaborative, the program is a unique exploration of sound – from traditional Persian melodies through to electronic sonic beauty, expect the unexpected.

WHERE & WHEN?

Presented inside the gallery in the cooler months, we invite you to connect with art in a unique and special way, as you treat your senses to these remarkable performances.

Goolugatup Sounds is a free event. To find out more, visit goolugatup.com/goolugatup-sounds

WE LOVE BRINGING PEOPLE TOGETHER FOR AN ENCHANTING EXPERIENCE LIKE MELVILLE MIDWINTER. EMBRACE THE MAGIC OF THE SEASONS, TWINKLING LIGHTS, INCREDIBLE PERFORMERS AND THE GORGEOUS NIGHT-TIME SKY.

Above (L–R) Melville Midwinter 2022, captured by Miles Noel

Reconciliation in action

Leanne Woods is Melville’s First Nations Engagement Coordinator. Leanne has previously worked as a lecturer and employment consultant and been a board member for key Aboriginal organisations in both Victoria and WA.

I feel like I make a difference here, I have lots of allies across the staff, and getting more all the time. My team has recently expanded too, so we are taking on more projects. In 2023, we will continue the Place Names project, looking at revealing the Aboriginal names of multiple sites in Melville. This work is such a journey and a learning.

Luckily, we are working on this with Moodjar Consultancy and the Community Arts Network (CAN), so we have a committed team on the job. We will also continue the Let’s Talk About Racism workshops which have gained momentum over the last couple of years and are now reaching out well beyond Melville. Then there’s the next Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), implementing the Cultural Learning Strategy and plenty more. It’s going to be another big year.

I’ve slowly learnt over the years to try and not carry the burden of other people’s issues. I can talk about it and try and help but I can’t take on responsibility for everyone else’s problems. I need to look after me too, so I can help look after others. You’ve got to remember to play, have fun, be in nature.

I used to resist change when I was younger but now I know we live in a world of constant change. Bring it on I say. In the words of my hero Mr Rob Riley, “You can’t be wrong if you are right, and you don’t stop fighting for justice simply because those around you don’t like it. You just keep fighting.”

To find out more about the great work Leanne and her team do, visit melvillecity.com.au/our-community/reconciliation

I LOVE WORKING AT MELVILLE. I LOVE THE PEOPLE. I GET THE CHANCE TO SHARE MY STORY IN MY WORK, AND TO HEAR THE STORIES OF OTHERS. SOMETIMES THIS CAN BE OVERWHELMING BUT IT’S ALSO VERY HEALING FOR ME AND THE PEOPLE I’M WORKING WITH. I ALWAYS KEEP TISSUES CLOSE BY.

Opposite Community BBQ at Willagee Library, captured by Clique Photography

Below Leanne Woods, captured by Natasja Kremers

Learn & Engage

NATIONAL RECONCILIATION WEEK

The City of Melville has changed the way we deliver and take part in National Reconciliation Week (NRW). Originally the responsibility of the First Nations Engagement team, it is now a shared responsibility across a panel of non-Aboriginal staff, who plan and deliver a program of activities and events in consultation with First Nations team members. First Nations advisors are looked to for guidance and wisdom but are not expected to carry the work of reconciliation.

In 2023, the theme for NRW is Be a Voice for Generations. At the City of Melville, we will continue the work we have started, moving forward with manifesting reconciliation in our workplaces, relationships and neighbourhoods. You are invited to take part in activities happening across the city.

Events and programs for National Reconciliation Week will be held from Thursday, 25 May to Saturday, 3 June. For full program details, visit melvillecity.com.au/reconciliation

WHERE & WHEN?

NATIONAL RECONCILIATION WEEK

Thu 25 May–Sat 3 Jun

Activities across the City and online FREE

GOOLUGATUP LOWERLANDS RENEWAL

Goolugatup Heathcote Lowerlands

Sat 20 May FREE

To see all upcoming events and programs, visit melvillecity.com.au/whatson

GOOLUGATUP LOWERLANDS RENEWAL

Goolugatup Lowerlands is a hidden gem on Melville’s foreshore, a space with enormous cultural significance, community and recreational value. Over many years, the City has worked with Whadjuk Elders, the community and stakeholders to envision ways to enhance this space and tell the stories of this place.

Detailed designs will soon be completed to realise the potential of the site, rejuvenating the lowerlands adjacent to Goolugatup Heathcote. We’d like to invite you to celebrate this milestone with us as we share the designs, and explore Goolugatup perspectives past, present, and future.

Join us for a smoking ceremony, learn more about the heritage, history and cultural stories of Goolugatup, and the renewal to come. Celebrations will also encompass talks and displays in your local libraries over the month, as well as Whadjuk storytelling events.

Look out for the public program to come and join us on Saturday, 20 May at Goolugatup Lowerlands – Duncraig Road, Applecross.

A place for independent arts

Melville is home to many incredible visual artists, creative industries and independently run arts organisations.

These dynamic, specialised groups offer participation as a maker or performer or the chance to enjoy art as an audience member or supporter. Take a chance this autumn and winter, explore what’s out there, join in and discover your hidden talents.

The Karlup Ceramics Studio home of the South of the River Potters’ Club has recently opened alongside the much-loved Melville Arts @ Atwell House – a thriving space for creative opportunities including classes and exhibitions year-round.

Performers and theatre lovers get ready as the Civic Main Hall undergoes renovations in preparation for becoming the new permanent home of Melville Theatre Company and space for community events. Take a visit to the Tivoli Club in the Canning Bridge Precinct to engage with their fantastic program housed inside the fabulous art deco theatre building.

Craft expertise abounds as the Melville Woodturners, with a wealth of knowledge and skill opens the doors to a newly redeveloped building this April and the Embroiderers’ Guild of WA welcome anyone with a love of embroidery, stitch and textiles to their learning community.

Melville’s musical talent is showcased in the Leeming Community Band and South Side Symphony Orchestra, providing places to make music, friends and spectacular entertainment for the community.

To get in touch with any of these and other organisations, visit melvillecity.com.au/artsdirectory

CALLING ALL CREATIVES

MELVILLE ART AWARDS

MELVILLE OPEN STUDIOS

Step inside homes, studios and creative hubs featuring more than 100 local artists, as the incredibly creative community of Melville open their doors for the last weekend in April.

Melville Open Studios invites you to see the art works on show and view where they were created. Observe the creative process and maybe even purchase your next favourite artwork, directly from the artist.

An artist directory is made available prior to the event so you can plan your Open Studios weekend and keep as a souvenir reference for talented Melville artists throughout the year. Save the dates, grab an art-loving friend, and make a weekend of it. To sign up for enews updates and receive your copy of this years’ Artist Directory, visit melvilleopenstudios.com

TREASURE HUNTING PUBLIC ARTWORKS

The streets of Melville are home to an amazing Public Art Collection and we want you to be able to explore the artworks across the City’s landscape with ease.

Introducing the Public Art Map, that will allow you to navigate around the diverse collection of murals, sculptures and integrated artworks, discovering the stories and processes that lie behind the creations.

The Public Art Map will provide a chance to learn about each individual work at your own pace. Pack a picnic and make a day of it, or café hop around the Ville, it’s a treasure hunt of superb art in your own backyard.

The free Public Art Map and more information about curated tours will be going live mid-year, for more details visit melvillecity.com.au/publicartmap

MELVILLE OPEN STUDIOS IS YOUR OPPORTUNITY TO EXPLORE AND DISCOVER THE DIVERSITY OF PRACTISING ARTISTS AND CREATIVES IN MELVILLE, AND TO PURCHASE UNIQUE WORKS DIRECT FROM ARTISTS.

J ennifer gaye , o P en S tudio S C oordinator

The annual Melville Art Awards will open for entries from WA artists from Monday, 4 September. Use that winter inspiration to create your next masterpiece and sign up to the Arts enews to receive information and access to the entry form – melvillecity.com.au/enews

Opposite Jaelle Pedroli, captured in her home studio by Natasja Kremers

APRIL

Kim Salmon: Smoke Signals to Aliens

Wireless Hill Museum

Opening Sat 1 Apr | 4pm

Exhibition runs until Sun 16 Apr

FREE

Explore the watercolour ink works of renowned musician and artist Kim Salmon responding to his personal reflections and the site of Yagan Mia Wireless Hill Park.

Music @ The Library

Varley Strings

Willagee Library

Sat 1 Apr | 10am–11am

FREE

Drop in and enjoy Music @ The Library with Varley Strings. It will put an extra spring in your Saturday morning step.

Art School with Tom Blake

Mandoon Helena at Goolugatup

Heathcote

Wed 19 and Thu 20 Apr

TICKETED

Led by WA artist Tom Blake, young creatives will experiment with drawing and cyanotype printing to create a series of postcards and then have the opportunity to exhibit them as part of a group show.

School Holiday Fun

AH Bracks Library + Creative Space

Willagee, Bull Creek and Civic Square Libraries and Wireless Hill Museum

School Holidays Fri 7–Sun 23 Apr

FREE + TICKETED

Melville Libraries and Museums have gone through the looking glass and transformed into a wonderland of exciting, creative, and sometimes strange activities and workshops for kids and young people.

Liftlore (Folklore)

Tim Meakins

Goolugatup Heathcote

Opening Night Thu 6 Apr | 6pm

Exhibition runs until Sun 21 May

FREE

An exhibition by Tim Meakins which satirically explores the folklore allegories surrounding one of the world’s most famous prehistoric sites, Stonehenge.

Goolugatup Sounds

Goolugatup Heathcote

Thu 6 Apr | 7pm

FREE

Goolugatup Sounds presents a program of innovative live music alongside each exhibition opening at Goolugatup Heathcote gallery.

Perth Makers Market

Goolugatup Heathcote

Sun 9 Apr | 9.30am–3.30pm

FREE

Premier WA handmade market featuring over 150 incredible local vendors, live music, delicious food, and a great atmosphere for the whole family.

Solid State

Wireless Hill Museum

Opening Night Fri 28 Apr | 6pm

Exhibition runs until Sun 8 Oct

FREE

An exhibition embodying the continual nature of change in all things technology and culture.

Book Launch – Say Hooray

AH Bracks Library + Creative Space

Sat 29 Apr | 10.30–11.30am

FREE Join local author Renae Hayward and illustrator Rebecca Mills for this fun picture-book launch party.

Melville Open Studios

Various Houses and studios across Melville

Sat 29 and Sun 30 Apr | 10am–4pm

FREE

Artists and creatives open their studios to the public over one exciting weekend in April. For full program visit, melvilleopenstudios.com

MAY

Art Club

Term 2 | Weekly | 3.45–5pm

TICKETED

A term-based program that allows young creatives to work with a WA artist to explore creative practice. Bookings essential for the whole term.

From History to Page Turner

AH Bracks Library + Creative Space

Wed 3 May | 6.45–8pm

TICKETED

Join academic, historian and writer Leigh Straw for this in-conversation event that will see you step inside the pages of her books and back in time.

Weekender Art Shows

Canning Bridge Community Space

Fri 5–Sun 7 May | 9am–5pm FREE

Featuring the works of Barbara Gool. For new and updated exhibition dates, visit melvillecity.com.au/weekenders

Shipwrecks –An Exploration

Civic Square Library

Tue 9 May | 6.45–8pm FREE

Take a deep dive into the investigation of the shipwrecks of the Indian Ocean with historical maritime archaeologist Graeme Henderson.

June–July Program Release

Libraries + Museums Events

Wed 10 May

FREE

Head down to your favourite library to grab your copy of the Melville Libraries and Museums events brochure. It’s full of exciting, unusual, creative, informative, and fun events and workshops!

Goolugatup Lowerlands

Renewal

Goolugatup Heathcote Lowerlands

Sat 20 May | 4–7pm

FREE

Come along to learn about the past, present and future of the Goolugatup Lowerlands.

Perth Makers Market

Goolugatup Heathcote

Sun 21 May | 9.30am–3.30pm

FREE

Premier WA handmade market featuring over 150 incredible local vendors, live music, delicious food, and a great atmosphere for the whole family.

Author In Conversation–

Brooke Dunnell

Civic Square Library

Thu 25 May | 6.45–8pm

TICKETED

Meet Fogarty Literary Award winner

Brooke Dunnell as she discusses The Glass House.

National Reconciliation

Week – Be a Voice for Generations

Various locations across the city

Thu 25 May–Sat 3 Jun

FREE

Join us to be a voice for generations this National Reconciliation Week–including a special panel featuring a group of First Nations’ young leaders as they discuss what being a voice for generations means to them. To find out more, visit melvillecity.com.au/reconciliation

Tender is the Night

Brendan Humphries + Todd Pickett

Tivoli Theatre

Sat 27 May | 6pm

TICKETED

Featuring Brendan Humphries and Todd Pickett both members of The Kill Devil Hills in solo performances like you’ve never seen them before, accompanied by the Tender Strings Quartet.

JUNE

National Reconciliation

Week – Be a Voice for Generations

Various locations across the city

Thu 25 May–Sun 3 Jun

FREE

Join us to be a voice for generations this National Reconciliation Week. To find out more, visit melvillecity.com.au/ reconciliation

Pride Month Celebrations

AH Bracks Library + Creative Space

Willagee, Bull Creek and Civic Square Libraries – throughout June

Celebrate gender and sexual diversity with us this June.

Mixxed Business: Fully Reloadeded II

Goolugatup Heathcote

Opening Night Fri 2 Jun | 6pm

Exhibition runs until 16 Jul

FREE

Pet Projects, a trio comprising some of Perth’s leading experimental artists, Dan Bourke, Andrew Varano and Gemma Weston are back for one last job.

Goolugatup Sounds

Goolugatup Heathcote

Fri 2 Jun | 7pm

FREE

Goolugatup Sounds presents a program of innovative live music alongside each exhibition opening at Goolugatup Heathcote gallery.

Book Launch –The Archipelago of Us

AH Bracks Library + Creative Space

Thu 22 Jun | 6.45–8pm

TICKETED

To coincide with Refugee Week, join author Reneé Pettitt-Schipp and take a look at Australia’s complicated history with Christmas and Cocos (Keeling) Islands and the asylum seekers detained there.

Melville Midwinter

Dyoondalup, Point Walter Reserve

Sat 24 Jun | 5–8pm

FREE

Now in its third year, Melville Midwinter has become a well-loved annual event. Starting at dusk, our evening festival takes you on a firelit magical journey with inspirational performances on a winter’s night by the river.

Koolangka Waangkiny

AH Bracks Library + Creative Space

Every Thu during school term | 10.15–10.45am

FREE

Join Rickeeta Walley on Whadjuk Boodja to celebrate Noongar stories and language. Suitable for 2–5 year olds and their parents and carers.

JULY

Makuru Art Box

Delivered to your door | Preorder

School Holidays Sat 1–Sun 16 July

TICKETED

Unpack a box of fun with creative activities from WA artists. For children aged 5–12.

School Holiday Fun

AH Bracks Library + Creative Space

Willagee, Bull Creek and Civic Square

Libraries and Wireless Hill Museum

School Holidays Sat 1–Sun 16 July

FREE + TICKETED

Read, grow and be inspired at Melville Libraries and Museums these school holidays! Program launches on Thursday, 15 June.

Art School

Various Venues

School Holidays Sat 1–Sun 16 July

TICKETED

Young creatives work with different artists in these school holiday workshops.

August–September

Program Release

Libraries + Museums Events

Wed 12 Jul

FREE Head down to your favourite library to grab your copy of the Melville Libraries and Museums events brochure. It’s full of exciting, unusual, creative, informative, and fun events and workshops!

Art Club

Term 3 | Weekly | 3.45–5pm

TICKETED

A term-based program that allows young creatives to work with a WA artist to explore creative practice. Bookings essential for the whole term.

Uttering & Earthly

Goolugatup Heathcote

Opening Night Fri 28 Jul | 6pm

Exhibition runs until Sun 10 Sep

FREE

A show by Alex Last that aims to explore some of the intricate and lesser-known details of animal communication and will challenge and deconstruct the notion that human language is in some way superior or unique.

Translucent Question Mark

Goolugatup Heathcote

Opening Night Fri 28 Jul | 6pm Exhibition runs until 10 Sep

FREE

An exhibition by Audrey Tan, Jess Tan and Sebastian Temple aims to carve space for spontaneous generative thinking and playful associations. Through navigating unknowing and uncertainty, the potential for new knowledge can be generated.

Goolugatup Sounds

Goolugatup Heathcote

Fri 28 Jul | 7pm

FREE

Goolugatup Sounds presents a program of innovative live music alongside each exhibition opening at Goolugatup Heathcote gallery.

AUGUST

Tender is the Night

Beau Torrance + Joe Caddy

Tivoli Theatre

Sat 26 Aug | 6pm

TICKETED

Featuring local musicians Beau Torrance and Joe Caddy with the Tender Strings Quartet in an intimate and vulnerable performance like you’ve never seen them before. Bring a picnic.

Science Week

AH Bracks Library + Creative Space Willagee, Bull Creek and Civic Square Libraries and Wireless Hill Museum

Sat 12–Sun 20 Aug

FREE + TICKETED

Melville Libraries and Museums are feeding innovation this SC ien C e W ee K with a variety of programs for all ages. For the full program of events visit melvillecity.com.au/whatson

Children’s Book Week

AH Bracks Library + Creative Space Willagee, Bull Creek and Civic Square Libraries

Fri 19–Fri 25 Aug

FREE

Celebrate books and Australian children’s authors and illustrators with Melville Libraries.

SEPTEMBER

October–November

Program Release

Libraries + Museums Events

Wed 13 Sep

FREE

Head down to your favourite library to grab your copy of the Melville Libraries and Museums events brochure. It’s full of exciting, unusual, creative, informative, and fun events and workshops!

Melville Contemporary

Goolugatup Heathcote

Opening night Sat 23 Sep | 5–8pm Exhibition runs until 22 Oct

FREE Melville Contemporary is a biennial art prize celebrating experimental art.

Goolugatup Sounds

Goolugatup Heathcote

Sat 23 Sep | 6pm

FREE

This special edition of Goolugatup Sounds will involve new commissioned live music to sit alongside the Melville Contemporary exhibition opening.

School Holiday Fun

AH Bracks Library + Creative Space

Willagee, Bull Creek and Civic Square Libraries and Wireless Hill Museum

School Holidays Sat 23 Sep–Sun 8 Oct

FREE + TICKETED

Travel through time and relative dimensions these school holidays at Melville Libraries and Museums. Program launches on Thursday, 6 September.

Perth Makers Market

Goolugatup Heathcote

Sun 24 Sep | 9.30am–3.30pm

FREE

Premier WA handmade market featuring over 150 incredible local vendors, live music, delicious food, and a great atmosphere for the whole family.

Art School

Various Venues

School Holidays Sat 23 Sep–Sun 8 Oct

TICKETED

Young creatives work with different artists in these school holiday workshops.

Solid State Exhibition

Wireless Hill Museum Exhibition runs until 8 Oct

FREE

An exhibition embodying the continual nature of change in all things technology and culture.

For all public programs and events, visit melvillecity.com.au

SELECTED PROGRAMS AND EVENTS LISTED ABOVE. PLEASE VISIT MELVILLECITY.COM.AU FOR FULL ARTS, LIBRARIES, MUSEUMS AND LOCAL HISTORY PROGRAMS AND EVENTS.

Above Melville Midwinter 2022, captured by Miles Noel

New ways to browse for your next favourite read

This winter, Melville libraries are excited to introduce Genrefication to the shelves. In a genrefied library, you can browse the library shelves just like you do at the bookstore. Starting with our adult fiction section, our library staff are hard at work sorting the collection into the genres you know and love.

Crime connoisseurs, romance lovers and fantasy fanatics will be able to delve into the shelves with ease to pick up your favourite author’s work. Within handy reach, the shelves will be brimming with new stories and authors for you to discover. Curl up with a cosy mystery, travel to exotic locations from the comfort of your couch or get lost in a wild adventure as you take time out to escape into new worlds.

Getting lost in a good book is one thing, getting lost in the shelves of our massive collection is quite another. We know sometimes you just want to find a book you know you’re going to love.

WE’RE EXCITED TO SEE BOOK LOVERS BROWSING OUR NEWLY ARRANGED LIBRARIES TO DISCOVER NEW AUTHORS AND STORIES IN GENRES THEY LOVE.

Melville is working towards the creation of a new Cultural Heart

Planning continues on a new cultural precinct linking the civic building with Yagan Mia Wireless Hill.

Our plan is to construct exceptional learning and creative spaces for our residents and the people of Perth to come and enjoy, experience, and learn in. This project sits alongside the developing City Centre and Westfield Shopping Centre Expansion.

The Cultural Heart project aims to deliver a new centre that will build on connections with existing libraries, galleries, museums and performance sites across the City of Melville. It will feature an interactive and expanded library, gallery, museum, performance, development, and flexible creative spaces.

To find out more about the plans for a Cultural Heart, visit melvillecity.com.au/culturalheart

In the good books

If browsing the shelves doesn’t sound like your idea of fun, or you’d rather spend your time reading, introducing In the Good Books –where we put our well-read library staff on a special mission to find something unique that hits the spot for every library lover.

Imagine a tailored book list, just for you, curated on your likes, dislikes and even what sort of book you happen to be in the mood for that week. Simply fill out the form and a few days later, you’ll receive a list of hand-picked suggestions via email. There’s plenty of ways for you to escape into the perfect story this autumn and winter, and as always, our library staff will be on hand to ensure you can find exactly what you need to keep you company. For more inspiration, recommended reading lists, book reviews and to request your own tailored book list, visit melvillecity.com.au/ libraries

THIS IS A BOLD AND AMBITIOUS PROJECT THAT WILL INCREASE MELVILLE’S CULTURAL CAPACITY AND IDENTITY, PROVIDING IMPROVED ACCESS FOR ALL TO THE LATEST RESOURCES, AND NEW WAYS TO INTERACT WITH AND DISCOVER THE BREADTH OF OUR ARTS PROGRAMMING, EVENTS AND EXPERIENCES.

Art meets place at Goolugatup Heathcote

Sitting atop some of the finest views in Boorloo (Perth) is Goolugatup Heathcote –home to a contemporary art gallery, museum, music events, artist studios, artisan store and much more to explore.

Step inside the newly renovated gallery at Goolugatup Heathcote at almost any time of the year and you’re sure to find some of the most incredible, innovative contemporary art coming out of Western Australia and beyond.

You’ll also find special events like the Perth Makers Market, Goolugatup Sounds music program, an evolving suite of public programs, a coffee kiosk open daily, a fantastic children’s playground to explore in the winter sun, and arguably one of the best spots in town to watch the storms roll in. The creative and curatorial team at Goolugatup Heathcote make it their mission to bring you a wide variety of all the joy, challenges, beauty, power and thought provocation that a cultural precinct can bring.

If you’ve never been, or haven’t visited in a while, reacquaint yourself with the vibrancy and views of Goolugatup Heathcote and discover something new this season.

For more information on the exhibitions, artists and current events, visit goolugatup.com

Above and opposite Goolugatup Heathcote Gallery & Exhibition Space, captured by Natasja Kremers

CELEBRATION OF CONTEMPORARY ART

Art tells stories, it reminds us of places, takes us to new ones, confirms and challenges our identity and questions the social and structural inequities around us. We invite you to explore our upcoming exhibitions.

In LIFTLORE (FOLKLORE), artist Tim Meakins satirically explores the folklore surrounding Stonehenge, playfully retelling the fairytale of Merlin and his band of merry giants through animations, sculptural forms and storyboarding, with tongue in cheek reflections on current day gym-lore (fitness culture).

Pet Projects, a trio comprising some of Perth’s leading experimental artists, Dan Bourke, Andrew Varano and Gemma Weston, are back with their sequel Mixxed Business: Fully Reloadeded II. Join them as they are consumed by unanswered rhetorical questions such as, “What is the relationship between place activation, community engagement and real-estate speculation?” And “Can God create a rock larger than they could lift?”

As part of the Hickey Street Artist Residency program, Goolugatup Heathcote is thrilled to present Uttering & Earthly, the first solo exhibition for Tasmanian-based artist and musician Alex Last. A show about communication, language, sound, music and listening. It explores the intricate details of animal communication and challenges and deconstructs the notion that human language is in some way superior or unique.

Translucent Question Mark, a group exhibition of early career contemporary artists Audrey Tan (VIC), Jess Tan (WA) and Sebastian Temple (VIC) aims to carve space for spontaneous generative thinking and playful associations. Stemming from

WHERE & WHEN?

LIFTLORE (FOLKLORE)

TIM MEAKINS

Opening Night Thu 6 Apr | 6pm

Exhibition runs until Sun 21 May

MIXXED BUSINESS: FULLY

RELOADEDED II | PET PROJECTS

Opening Night Fri 2 Jun | 6pm

Exhibition runs until Sun 16 Jul

UTTERING & EARTHLY

ALEX LAST

Opening Night Fri 28 Jul | 6pm

Exhibition runs until Sun 10 Sep

TRANSLUCENT QUESTION MARK

AUDREY TAN, JESS TAN, SEBASTIAN TEMPLE

Opening Night Fri 28 Jul | 6pm

Exhibition runs until Sun 10 Sep

MELVILLE CONTEMPORARY 2023

AKIRA AKIRA, DAN BOURKE, JESS DAY, NATSUMI DE DIANOUS, TOM MÙLLER AND MEI SARASWATI

Opening Night Fri 23 Sept | 6pm

Exhibition runs until Sun 22 Oct

All exhibition openings are free and followed by Goolugatup Sounds at 7pm, for full program details, visit goolugatup.com

the idea of de-centered art practice, explore the works as they navigate unknowing and uncertainty and the potential for new knowledge is generated.

MELVILLE CONTEMPORARY ART AWARD

Celebrating experimental art, the Melville Contemporary is a biennial art prize that awards commissions to six Western Australian professional artists.

Supporting ambitious practice and encouraging new and unusual ideas and ways of working, the six finalists are invited to produce exploratory new work for exhibition at Goolugatup Heathcote. The final winner, announced on the opening night will be invited to present a solo exhibition in 2024.

Featuring 2023 finalists, Akira Akira, Dan Bourke, Jess Day, Natsumi de Dianous, Tom Mùller and Mei Saraswati, you are invited to come celebrate the work of these exciting contemporary artists on opening night.

For more information about the finalists, visit goolugatup.com/ melville-contemporary

WHERE & WHEN?

Discover wonders on the hill

It’s hard to believe there’s 40 hectares of pristine remnant bushland just a short five-minute walk from the Civic Centre. With views to the river, Yagan Mia Wireless Hill Park has been a lookout and place of communication for Noongar Beeliar people for thousands of years. Sitting in the middle of the park, you’ll find Wireless Hill Museum, the only remaining signal station in Australia and perhaps not what you imagine or what you remember from your school excursions of yesteryear.

Vibrant, dynamic collections accompanied by fascinating public programs and an engaging creative learning program for schools and young people awaits you this autumn and winter. It’s also a great time for exploring the wildflowers that start to flourish in June and are in full show by late winter. Walk along the heritage trails, and learn the wildflower names in Noongar, English and Latin on the triple-language signs. Bring a picnic to the lawn, find the morse code language in the playground and check out the interesting upcoming exhibitions.

KIM SALMON: SMOKE SIGNALS TO ALIENS

A rare WA exhibition from the influential punk musician and artist Kim Salmon in his first ever home town showing. Explore the water colour ink works as Kim responds to his personal reflections and the site of Yagan Mia Wireless Hill Park, returning to his first artistic love of painting and drawing.

SOLID STATE

We are all in a state of transition in some way of another. Radio technologies have transformed the way mass communication, public entertainment and news media is conceived and delivered.

An exhibition embodying the continual nature of change in all things technology and culture. This culture revealing exhibition showcases the transition from valve to transistor technology in radio communication and the way technology shaped and was shaped by communicators and audiences.

To learn more about upcoming exhibitions and event, visit melvillecity.com.au/wirelesshillmuseum

CREATIVE LEARNING ON THE HILL

Children and young people’s activities have undertaken a creative and exciting revamp as Creative Learning Producer, Kaitlyn Elsegood finds new and fun ways to explore and learn about the museum collection and local history.

Visit the website for details of current events and programs, melvillecity.com.au/museumlearning

DELVE INTO LOCAL HISTORY

Get ready to enjoy a new magazine, Delve which will focus on the history and stories of Melville and its residents. Have you ever wondered who or what your street is named for? Do you know where to find out about some of the oldest houses in Melville? We’ve done the detective work for you. The magazine will feature photographs, stories about local culture, objects and artefacts, oral histories and even an activity for the kids.

To find out more about Delve and where you can grab a copy, visit melvillecity.com.au/ localhistory

Opposite Yagan Mia Wireless Hill Park & Wireless Hill Museum, captured by Daniel Njegich

Dive by Henry Miller 1939 courtesy of Melville Photographic Collection

THIS IS A BEAUTIFUL PLACE TO BE AS SUMMER FADES AND GIVES WAY TO THE COOLER MONTHS AND THE WILDFLOWERS. AS THE BUSH AROUND US CHANGES, WE EXPLORE THE TRANSITION OF TECHNOLOGY THROUGH OUR SOLID STATE EXHIBITION. COME UP AND SPEND SOME TIME WITH US ON THE HILL.

Creative learning for little art lovers

The creative learning team have been busy dreaming up all the ways to bring contemporary art and artists into the worlds of children and their families.

Whether it’s through school holiday programs, activities delivered to your door, or ongoing workshops during the term, we invite children to stretch their creative potential, explore their curiosity and learn from an incredible collection of WA artists.

Collectively known as art S tuff, it’s all about children having fun and making awesome stuff whilst meaningfully engaging a new generation in critical and creative thinking. As Creative Learning Producer Claire Krouzecky says, “We happily encourage and provide space for the children to be creative because nourishing artistic processes supports the capacity to create the great ideas and innovations of the future.” More creative learning and art exploration creates more problem-solving innovators and future leaders.

BEING ABLE TO SHARE MY ART PRACTICE AND MY PASSION FOR MAKING WITH YOUNG ARTISTS IN MELVILLE HAS BEEN A FANTASTIC EXPERIENCE. IT HAS PROVIDED A GREAT PLATFORM FOR ME TO BRING MY ART OUTSIDE OF THE STUDIO AND GALLERY SETTING TO CONNECT WITH THE COMMUNITY AND IT IS AN EXPERIENCE THAT I WILL CHERISH FOREVER.

BOOK AHEAD FOR SCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN

Your new favourite school holiday booking, art SCH ool offers an opportunity to work over a session, sometimes two, to explore an art form and the passion of creating with a practicing artist.

From weaving to embroidering, sculpting to drawing, little art lovers are introduced to a process of artmaking, reflection, exploring and play in a fun school holiday program.

To learn more about our different creative learning arts programs for children and young people, visit melvillecity.com.au/artstuff

What’s in the box?

If you’re looking for the perfect antidote to winter school holiday boredom and haven’t met our ART BOX yet, let us introduce you!

Each edition of art B oX is completely unique, featuring creative activities designed by WA artists for children aged 5–12. Each box includes (almost) all the materials you need to complete the activities, along with some special art B oX stickers, lots of reusable craft supplies, and a whole lot of joy.

Ever wondered what you get in an art B oX ? See what it’s all about with Betty Poulsen’s Cardboard Pareidolia activity from our Djilba edition of art B oX

Face pareiodolia is seeing faces in everyday objects. Use this phenomenon to inspire you to create a mask from discarded cardboard boxes. See Theo’s great example of this activity below.

1. Find some interesting fruit and veggie boxes at the shops to use for your mask.

2. Once you have selected your boxes, cut them into flat pieces using a knife or scissors.

3. Think about what features you want to include and cut out these shapes from your cardboard pieces to make the elements of your mask. What shape are your eyebrows, chin, cheeks, ears, nose, eyes or lips?

4. Use paint or textas to create striking patterns on each of your mask pieces. Stripes, spots and geometric patterns work well.

5. Once your painted pieces have dried, start to layer them to create your mask. Try out different positions to experiment with expressions. When you are happy, carefully apply PVA glue to the back of the pieces you want to stick down. You may want to wait for each layer to dry before adding another one.

6. Yay, you have completed your first mask!

Public artwork by artist Jina Lee along the Attadale Foreshore, captured by Miles Noel