Bigger is better for co-ordinator

ArtGeo complex’s new co-ordinator is on a mission to capitalise on the city’s burgeoning cultural scene and place it alongside other drawcards for which the region is renowned.

Originally from Glasgow, Diana Roberts has worked in the industry for more than 30 years, from the British Museum and Natural Museum of Australia to director of Bunbury Regional Galleries.

A month into overseeing the complex, the co-ordinator sees the role as going beyond promoting exhibitions to fostering regional arts development and visitation.

Ms Roberts said the Queen Street cultural precinct was a major coup for the arts scene.

However, it was now time to take “latent potential” to the next level.

“There’s so much happening in the region and easily a slot for ArtGeo to forge its own identity in what it does, ” she said. “I want people to see this as a place that will be put on the map.

“There is so much scope for using visual arts to tell stories … I get a sense people are waiting to see what we can do next.”

As part of her arts development objective, she wants to help artists with business aspects of the profession through workshops and programs while enhancing audience appreciation by bringing more touring exhibitions and chances to view art from outside the area.

Branding ArtGeo as where art meets heritage was positive but underdeveloped, Ms Roberts said.

There was a need to build stronger links with history and surrounding attractions, offer interactive activities and engage youth and locals with specialised skills.

“This is a multi-arts complex, let’s use some of that theatricality … if you can bring it alive I think people will recognise the value of the complex and cultural tourism, ” she said.

“Creativity exists in so many places — it’s about tapping into that and drawing that out of people.”

Asked about a performing arts centre, which was understood to be on the City of Busselton’s agenda, she indicated willingness to advocate for it if invited to participate in planning.

Ms Roberts hoped to also show how sport and art could co-exist, and help Busselton to become the regional events capital of WA.

“I really think a vibrant arts scene does contribute to the vitality and imagination of a place and I’d like to see us playing a significant role in that, ” she said.