Art exhibition celebrates positive outlook of rural women

12/9/03
The positive outlook and creative talents of rural women will be on display at an art exhibition opening in central Perth tonight.
The 'What happened at Cue' exhibition, organised by Western Australian Women in Agriculture, includes photographs and sketches that provide a unique opportunity to view the Murchison area through artists' eyes.
The exhibition is also a celebration of the positive outlook displayed by the artists when they attended a workshop last July during the worst drought year in living memory.
Agriculture Minister Kim Chance said participants in the workshop at Cue, east of Geraldton, had drawn strength from their unity during a period of great stress on their families and communities.
"The works they created grew out of their love for the land and underlying resolve that agricultural fortunes would eventually improve - a belief that has now become reality."
Opening the exhibition in the Governor Stirling Tower foyer, Mr Chance said the artworks demonstrated how art and creativity could help to create a balance in people's lives, especially in remote and regional communities.
"The art program run by Australian Women in Agriculture has given many rural women and men the opportunity to express themselves creatively and gain more confidence in their abilities," he said.
"There is no doubt that this self confidence can help sustain communities to deal with the many issues and problems facing them during difficult times."
Mr Chance said the range of issues and activities Australian Women in Agriculture was involved in demonstrated the organisation's commitment to caring for people, rural families and communities and the environment.
"It is important to recognise the key role women play in sustaining their family farms, businesses and communities," he said
"Gatherings such as the art workshops held in Lake Grace, Williams, Wagin, Geraldton and Cue give rural women the opportunity to share experiences and further develop their strong networks."

The exhibition runs until September 19 in the foyer of the Governor Stirling Tower, 197 St George's Terrace.
Minister's office: 9213 6700