The State Library of WA and Andrew and Nicola Forrest’s charitable Foundation are pleased to announce Yamaji Art as the preferred applicants to the Fellowship in the Yamaji region.

Yamaji Art in Geraldton represents artists from the Mid-West of Western Australia, known as Yamaji Country, and includes five cultural groups: Amangu, Nhanagardi, Naaguja, Badimaya, Wajarri and Wilunyu. Yamaji Art also represents Nyoongar, Yinggarda and Ngaanyatjarra artists residing in Geraldton.

Yamaji Art will focus on traditional cultural knowledge of water and water sources throughout the region. Water was a key factor in determining the success or failure of early exploration of Australia. During his trek, John Forrest relied on Aboriginal trackers and Yamaji peoples’ knowledge to locate water.

Artists anticipated to be involved in the project:

• Barbara Merritt – Badimaya
• Margaret Whitehurst – Wajarri
• Craig Pickett – Noongar
• Gemma Merritt – Badimaya
• Jesse Pickett – Noongar-Yamaji
• Susan Merry – Wajarri
• Debra Maher – Wajarri
• Nicole Dickerson – Naaguja – Ngarluma
• Lily-mae Kerley – Noongar-Yamaji
• 3 junior/emerging artists

To view more information about Yamaji Art please visit: http://www.yamajiart.com/   or view on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/yamajiart/