Local Pilbara artists to create artwork for new Newman Health Service
The Newman Health Service is set to become home to a series of artworks by local Martumili artists when the brand new hospital and health service is completed in 2023.
The $61.4 million redevelopment project, which includes a $15 million contribution from BHP Iron Ore (BHP), will provide Newman and the surrounding communities with a modern, fit-for-purpose facility delivering care closer to home and on Country.
WA Country Health Service Pilbara Regional Director, Margi Faulkner said the incorporation of artwork by local Aboriginal artists will help ensure Aboriginal people can receive care in a culturally safe and welcoming facility that meets the needs of the community.
"The artwork will focus on the concept of storytelling, incorporating the themes of culture, mining and pastoralism through both internal and external installations reflecting local art practices and culture," Ms Faulkner said.
"The themes have been developed in consultation with Traditional Owners and the wider Newman community to acknowledge Aboriginal practices related to healing and medicine as well as embed and honour traditional knowledge systems of Nyiyaparli and Martu culture," she added.
Part of the State Government's Percent for Art Scheme, stage one of the art program encompasses the works of Warnman sisters Lily Long and Amy French who have been awarded a contract to collaborate on a work for the main foyer depicting Karlamilyi, also known as Rudall River National Park, painting what Country means to them and the connection between self, place, country and culture, highlighting the concept of care.
Artwork for the main entry screen has been awarded to Manyjilyjarra woman Mulyatingki Marney whose piece tells the story of Minyipuru, or the Seven Sisters, and embodies Aboriginal notions of interconnectedness between spirituality, land and self.
Construction on the site is progressing well with the roof recently erected on the building.
The first stage of the works is on track to be finalised in the third quarter of 2022, and the subsequent stages expected to be completed and fully operational by mid-2023.