Call & Response "Conversations"

The "Call and Response" project was initiated by Kamila Waleszkiewicz in the beggining of 2023. Planned to unfold in two stages, each culminating in the creation of at least one artwork. During the initial project meeting, artists had the opportunity to explore Louise Wells's collection of historical photos of Inglewood  and engage in a conversation about their own experiences within the suburb. Through artistic expressions, artists aimed to establish a meaningful dialogue with Inglewood's history and culture. After three weeks, they would meet again to reveal their creations and draw a partner to whose work they would respond by creating a new piece of art to expand the artistic dialogue about Inglewood's history and culture. The contemporary, local art spirit unfolded before our eyes.

Artists involved in the "Conversations I" project: Graham Hay, sculptor (clay); Irvine Hay, sculptor (metal); Iwona Van Niekerk, designer, painter; Jillian Ciemitis, printmaker, and photographer; Kamila Waleszkiewicz (project coordinator), painter, printmaker; Kelly Ha, illustrator, painter; Louise Wells, textile artist; Naomi Antenucci, printmaker; Peter Campagna, painter; Peter Ciemitis, painter; Sue Hibbert/Arnautovic, watercolorist.

The artworks we created present our conversations with Inglewood history and the art crafts of each artist. The exhibition meant to engage and inspire members of the Inglewood community, as well as artists and individuals who are interested in the arts and culture scene in Perth, Western Australia. We intend to encourage critical thinking about the community and its history and to prompt reflection on personal connections to the place. Through the diverse range of artworks on display, we hope to facilitate creative conversations and collaboration among Perth’s artists and audience members alike.

As artists, we found great joy in this project. It challenged and inspired us, pushing us to explore new forms of art and expand our creative expression. The artworks featured in this catalogue will be displayed at an exhibition during the official launch event of the Inglewood Arts Hub on April 24, 2023.

On behalf of all the artists involved in the project, I respectfully acknowledge the Nyoongar Nation as the Traditional Custodians of the Country on which we live. We pay our respects to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past, present, and emerging, and their ancient wisdom and strong connection to land and community.