Sixteenth International Conference on the Arts in Society

Abstract

Andrew Stables (2019) suggests that “we live in isolated bubbles, either as individuals or as communities” (5). While social and global interactions are rapidly changing and increasing, local communications and reflections remain unchanged in art communities and cultural institutions. In this paper, I consider ideas about non-verbal and professional communications in the local art context and the influence of cultural institutions on the recognition for the local artists in Perth. As a local artist in Perth, Western Australia, I keep asking myself, why do I still make art, and how do my projects get recognised? To develop my discussion on these questions, I will look at my personal experiences as an artist and academic – specifically, from my position as an Iranian migrant, and my artistic investigations and developments in Perth. I will also look at how the professional connection between artists and institutions can impact the artist’s careers in Perth. I will examine some of my art projects, such as A long letter to home (2015-20) and Indian ocean ceremony (2020-21), to extend my discussion on the above points and to consider possible ways of sharing my voice with the local communities. Stables, Andrew. 2019. New Localism: Living in the Here and Now. London: Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-21579-8.