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Budding remote WA artists exceed expectations in 2013 residency program

Horizon Power partnered with Tura this year to present the residency program, which has been held for four consecutive years. The program, which was held from 12 June – 26 July, provides new opportunities for residents of remote communities to express themselves artistically and learn skills they might not normally have the resources for.

Gillian Howell, an internationally renowned music educator, spent the past two weeks in the Dampier Peninsula working with school students and community groups to engage in creative activities such as song writing, learning instruments, listening skills and composing music.

Following workshops in each community, participants were then given the opportunity to perform in a concert to wow community members with their new found talents. 

“In the short time we spent in each community, we managed to tap into lots of talent within the community, nurture and inspire some creative spirits and create an ensemble of performers that was beyond many people’s initial expectation.”

“All community members were happy to be involved in the activities and you could see the confidence of the participants building as they further developed their skills,” said Gillian.

The Residency Program kicked off in Broome on 12 June and then moved to Djarindjin/Lombadina on 14 June for a week and finished at One Arm Point on Wednesday 26 June. For more information about the program, please visit the event blog at www.tura.com.au/category/blog/residency/

In addition to this program, Horizon Power also sponsors the ‘Oper-Arte’ Art Exhibition and Auction, where the proceeds are utilised each year to provide increased access to musical instruments and materials for the children of Broome and the West Kimberley via at Djarinjin Lombardina, One Arm Point and Beagle Bay plus La Grange Remote Community School at Bidyadanga. The auction will take place as part of the Opera Under the Stars event in Broome on 29 - 30 August 2013. For more information, please visit www.operaunderthestars.com.au.

Contact Reference: Natalie Mansfield - Phone: 0477 380 356