The transformation of Perth's main cultural hub is set to receive a landmark artistic addition, with a trio of acclaimed artists confirmed to create a significant new public artwork honouring the site's deep Noongar heritage.
Artistic Trio to Lead Landmark Project
As the extensive revitalisation of the Perth Cultural Centre nears its completion, the team responsible for a pivotal public art installation has been announced. The project will be led by Noongar cultural advisor Justin Martin, who will be joined by the award-winning artistic collaborators Susan Milne and Greg Stonehouse.
The artists plan to draw upon traditional stories to create a piece that pays respect to the enduring Noongar connection to the land on which the cultural precinct stands. This artwork marks the first of its kind in the centre specifically designed for this purpose.
Profiles of the Creative Minds
Justin Martin began his painting journey around 2009 and has since developed a distinctive style. His work masterfully blends traditional dot-work, influenced by his Yamatji heritage, with linear motifs inspired by Noongar traditions. His art is no stranger to public spaces in Perth; a large 5m x 2m digitally-designed piece by Martin was unveiled at the eastern entrance of Karrinyup Shopping Centre in 2022.
Reflecting on his connection to place, Martin said, "Growing up in Karrinyup, I’ve played in every single bushland. It has a lot of important wildlife species and I’ve tried to represent these as special spirit animals and guides in life."
The collaborators, Greg Stonehouse and Susan Milne, bring a wealth of experience, with a public art practice spanning more than two decades that has reached communities across Australia. Stonehouse specialises in large-scale, site-specific sculptures, often engaging directly with public infrastructure. Milne focuses on mixed-media sculptures that creatively merge contemporary materials with natural or recycled elements.
This is not the trio's first collaboration. They previously joined forces on a striking installation for Curtin University's TL Robertson Library, unveiled in February 2022. That work combined hand-blown glass vials, blackbutt timber, and mild steel to map sea-currents, seasonal cycles, and Noongar knowledge.
A Revitalised Hub for Perth's Creative Future
Creative Industries Minister Simone McGurk celebrated the ongoing revamp, stating it will better connect major cultural institutions like the WA Museum, the State Library, and The Art Gallery of WA.
"We want to foster a creative economy where our creatives can live and work in Western Australia," Minister McGurk said. "We also want to encourage audiences and utilisation of our cultural institutions."
Progress on the ground is already visible. Sections of the centre located in front of The Blue Room Theatre and near the Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts have reopened to the public. Newly released artist impressions showcase a future of landscaped pathways, shaded areas, and lush greenery that will seamlessly link the city's premier cultural destinations.
The ambitious plan will see the precinct's rear area transformed into a vibrant hub for art, festivals, and community events. This initiative aims to create more welcoming and dynamic spaces for visitors, significantly boosting Perth’s cultural and tourism appeal for years to come.
