25/8/04
Housing and Works Minister Nick Griffiths has unveiled the new Perth Convention Exhibition Centre's major artwork, an 18-metre long painting by leading South-West artist Chris Pease.
Mr Griffiths said more than 2,000 small recycled jarrah blocks provide a backdrop for the oil painting, which is installed above the main registration desk in the centre's upper level foyer.
"The sweeping scene of the Swan River of the 1820s, dominated by a depiction of the Waugul, was commissioned by the State Government in February, 2004," he said.
"This is a monumental piece of art in an impressively vast building and the two will complement each other very well over the years to come.
"The $180,000 commissioned work is a great example of the Government's ongoing commitment to fostering a vibrant and viable arts industry throughout WA and we will continue to set aside funds to ensure artworks by our local artists are prominent in places totally or partly funded by the State."
Chris Pease is one of Australia's most respected young artists. His work, which often explores Aboriginal heritage and contemporary identity using traditional symbols, is hung in the WA Art Gallery and the National Gallery of Australia.
Mr Pease is a former winner of the general painting prize in the prestigious Telstra National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Awards.
Mr Griffiths said the painting would be enjoyed by thousands of people about to pass through the doors of the new centre.
"The people coming to this building over many years will be impressed not only by the sheer scale of the painting, but the power of its symbolism and insight into our WA identity," he said.
The centre's chief executive, Paul D'Arcy, said the painting would make an immediate impact on visitors.
"This impressive artwork will take pride of place in our new venue, creating a stunning entry statement for the Perth Centre," Mr D'Arcy said.
"The uniquely Western Australian feeling of the piece is a natural fit with our venue, which will be admired and appreciated by delegates and visitors travelling to Perth from around Australia and the world."
More than 300 local, national and international conventions are booked at the Convention Centre up until 2011.
The $220million facility will be officially opened tomorrow by Premier Geoff Gallop.
Minister's office: 9222 8950
