Major cultural tourism project to lead the way to Mandurah and Peel region in Australian first
A series of enormous wooden sculptures will call Western Australia home when they are built and installed by their creator, internationally renowned Danish recycle artist Thomas Dambo, in the City of Mandurah, an hour south of Perth.
Initiated and produced by FORM – Building a State of Creativity Inc. and delivered in collaboration with the City of Mandurah with support from Tourism WA, Thomas Dambo’s Sculptures in Western Australia is an Australian-first major cultural tourism project that is anticipated to bring thousands of visitors to Mandurah and Western Australia’s Peel region, in what will also be a boost for the local economy.
“Mandurah is a city renowned across Australia for its natural beauty, making it the perfect home for Thomas Dambo’s celebrated artworks,” said Mayor Rhys Williams.
“Thomas’ unique approach to promoting the protection of the natural world fits beautifully with our Mandurah story, and we feel very privileged to be part of such a special project.”
Dambo has exhibited extensively throughout the world including in Denmark, USA, France, Germany, China, South Korea and Chile. Both an artist and activist, Dambo’s practice celebrates the diversity, beauty and importance of the natural world, with the artist’s works handmade using recycled and locally sourced materials. Through his trash to treasure approach, Dambo highlights the possibilities found in waste and the urgency of environmental sustainability.
“We can design an entire world out of trash when we know what to do with it. That’s why I build these larger-than-life projects out of recycled wood and materials. I hope my work inspires others to be kinder to nature and our planet,” said Dambo.
This free-to-view outdoor exhibition from Dambo will feature at least five site specific works – each up to 5 metres tall – that will engage with stories of Mandurah through inspiration from the local community involved in their creation. The sculptures are intended to be protectors of the environment, and will be placed in secret locations to be discovered and explored.
FORM has proudly delivered cultural projects to the community for more than two decades, using creativity and the arts to enhance the lives and livelihoods of Western Australians across the State. These projects include the Tracks We Share project, Canning Stock Route Project, the PUBLIC Silo Trail, and Field of Light: Avenue of Honour in Albany.
FORM’s CEO Tabitha McMullan said, “FORM is excited to be working with our partners, the community in Mandurah, and Thomas Dambo, to bring Thomas Dambo’s Sculptures in Western Australia to life, which will no doubt capture the imaginations of both the young and young-at-heart. This project will highlight important local stories from the region, connecting Mandurah to the artist’s global narrative. As a free-to-view outdoor sculpture trail, it will also provide access to arts and culture for thousands of people, transforming the traditional gallery experience.”
Thomas Dambo’s Sculptures in Western Australia is expected to launch towards the end of 2022 and has been made possible by support from the State Government through Tourism WA’s Regional Events Program, and the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries; as well as support from the City of Mandurah.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Tourism Roger Cook said, “The State Government, through Tourism WA, is proud to support this Australian-first exhibition. This exciting series of installations will create awe and excitement for families all across the State, and bring thousands of visitors to the Peel region to not only discover the exhibition, but to support local tourism businesses in the surrounding areas.”
Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan said, “The State Government’s Regional Events Program plays a vital role in bringing unique artistic events like this to regional communities. Thomas Dambo’s Sculptures in Western Australia will drive thousands of visitors to the City of Mandurah and the wider Peel region, which will boost the local economy and increase the profile of the area for years to come.”
Minister for Culture and the Arts and Member for Mandurah David Templeman said, “I’m beyond thrilled that Mandurah will host Thomas Dambo’s Sculptures in Western Australia, an exhibition with global resonance that will highlight the importance of protecting the natural wonders of our very own backyard, and draw visitors from near and far.”