Earlier this year, the Art with the Stars exhibition launched in Fremantle, showcasing artwork produced by Shooting Stars participants. Based in 22 schools, Shooting Stars is an education and empowerment program for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander girls. The program is predominantly staffed by Aboriginal women and reaches more than 1,200 girls in WA and SA.

Art with the Stars Exhibition

Art with the Stars unites women with a local Aboriginal artist for 10 weeks, using art to connect with culture. The latest iteration of the free exhibition will be held at Fremantle’s Shipwrecks Museum until April 28th, featuring an array of media including basket-weaving, textiles, painting, fashion, and dance. The range of projects offer insight into unique perspectives, aspirations, and stories, while highlighting connection to culture, community, and self. 

“By providing our participants access to Aboriginal artists, we not only teach them a skill, but rather provide them with a space and a means to connect with themselves, their communities, and their country,” Shooting Stars Research Manager, Rose Whitau said.

Mentored by celebrated artists

The young women were mentored by a selection of celebrated artists including Vicki and Kathy Long in Halls Creek. Bonni Ingram, Esma McMahon and Lynda Ryder in Carnarvon; and Bianca Hart in Collie. Honey Webb at the Kiara College site; Rodelle Battle and Rebecca Councillor in Mullewa. In Fitzroy Crossing, designers Lois Hazel and Simone Agius in conjunction with local artists Ivy Nargoodah, Torrence Lulu and Natalie Davy.

To learn more about the Shooting Stars program and Art with the Stars exhibition, visit the website. Or, simply add the exhibition to your March bucket list.