Paying tribute to artistic flair
Did you know that some of the streets in Whitlam are named after artists? We’re working with artists and the creative sector to celebrate art and spark curiosity and joy in our public spaces in Whitlam.
The suburb of Whitlam celebrates and elevates the creative minds and works of artists, following the efforts of its namesake, Prime Minister Gough Whitlam. From painters to poets, dancers to puppet makers, weavers to historians – Whitlam’s street names reflect the incredible contribution arts and culture makes to society.
The streets, crescents and laneways of Whitlam weave, dance and sculpt the suburb, telling stories of intense creativity and passion. From First Nations’ bark painters, to Mr Squiggle’s offsider ‘Miss Pat’ – creative expression is celebrated and revered throughout the neighbourhood.
Streets named after artists
Many of the artworks created by the named artists are available to see to this day in Canberra at the National Gallery of Australia, the Australian National University and recorded for posterity in film, online archives, and in print.
Some of the artists celebrated with a street named after them include:
- Tingwell Street, named after Charles ‘Bud' Tingwell, actor
- Gabori Street, named after Mirdidingkingathi Juwarnda - Mrs Sally Gabori, contemporary Indigenous artist, senior Kaiadilt woman
- Patkin Street, named after Nehama Ruth Patkin, musician, dancer, television presenter and teacher.
Wander (or dance!) through the streets of Whitlam and have your own artistic journey, sparking creative thoughts and inspiration as you view the latest contemporary artworks created and on display across the Innovation Precinct and Display Village.
A long-term celebration of local artists
We’re committed to supporting and celebrating local artists within the community. Recognising the invaluable contributions artists make to the cultural fabric of a region, SLA actively seeks opportunities to collaborate and provide platforms for artistic expression.
Through various initiatives, such as public art projects, exhibitions, and community events and engagement programmes, we aim to nurture and promote the talents of local artists and enrich the local culture.
Our Of Land And Belonging exhibition in Whitlam was our flagship celebration of local artists. It showcases artworks by Amanda Stuart, Amelia Zaraftis, John Reid, Marzena Wasikowska, Byrd, Nicola Dickson, Aidan Hartshorn, AEODE, and Dan Power in 55 artworks installed around the Innovation Precinct in our Display Village.
Of Land And Belonging exhibition
For more information about these local artists, check out our profiles of individual artists showcased in our Of Land And Belonging exhibition below.
Find out more about how we celebrate creativity and the work of artists in by visiting the SLA Display Village.
