Compiler

Sanja Pahoki, The answer to all my problems, 2007, neon. At Lismore Regional Gallery until 23 April. Courtesy of the artist. www.lismoregallery.org

STOP PRESS

Image caption: Sarah Pirrie, Fresh Wreath, 2008, roses, dyed paper. From the solo exhibition Helen’s Wreath at Wood St Gallery, Darwin, 23 April to 10 May. Courtesy of the artist and Darwin Visual Arts Association.

New Media Mayhem

The recent announcement of a National New Media Art Award has upset some members of the Queensland arts community, not because of the opportunity the award represents but in the choice of the award’s governing body, the Queensland Gallery of Modern Art, and its process of pre-selection. Murri new media artist and curator Jenny Fraser has circulated an email to Queensland Premier Anna Bligh requesting a re-think of this decision towards an egalitarian open-entry (rather than GoMA-sanctioned pre-selection). Fraser’s impassioned email asserts: ‘This type of investment in Queensland Art Gallery as THE Authority is problematic on many levels but mostly in reference to fascist cultural gatekeeping and the monetary investment that allows them to prop up their (already well-funded) program. What is so bad about sharing the load around to other cultural organisations and mindsets?’ Over to Anna.

Art Panthers

Who said sport and art don’t mix? A unique, historic partnership between rugby league and contemporary art was launched mid-March at Western Sydney’s Penrith Panthers Rugby League Club, as part of the C3 West project. Generating new avenues for arts support, C3 West relates the three ‘C’s - community, culture and commerce - towards high-quality art projects in Western Sydney by Australian and international artists. More than a potential name-change from ‘cheerleader’ to ‘performance artist’, you quip? Project partner, the MCA’s Elizabeth Ann MacGregor explains: ‘The emphasis of C3 West is on process and how artists can inject creative thinking into businesses, rather than on the creation of conventional artworks.’ Artists Sylvie Blocher (France), Craig Walsh (Brisbane) and Regina Walter (Western Sydney) are currently working with the Panthers’ club and local community on five projects. The challenge is on now for other clubs and codes to level the (artistic) playing field. C3 West is a collaboration between the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre, Penrith Regional Gallery and The Lewers Bequest, Campbelltown Arts Centre and commercial partners including Penrith Panthers.