KATE O’ SHEA JOINS FREMANTLE ARTS CENTRE FOR 2025 RESIDENCY IN COLLABORATION WITH THE IRISH MUSEUM OF MODERN ART
Fremantle Arts Centre (FAC) is excited to welcome artist Kate O’ Shea as the latest participant in our International Residency Exchange Program, this time in collaboration with the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA).
Kate O’Shea is a socially engaged artist whose work spans printmaking, archiving, large-scale installation, performance, and publishing. Her recent projects highlight her commitment to storytelling, community engagement, and activism. Among her notable works is Revolutionary Archivists (2024), a collaboration with community leaders in Scotland, and the publication of How Much Is Enough? (2023), which reflects on her two-year residency at Studio 468 in Dublin.
Through initiatives like Networks of Solidarity, Kate has connected place-based struggles across continents, bridging stories between communities in Dublin and Gadigal Country (Sydney, Australia). This deep engagement informs her practice as she continues to explore themes of land, diaspora, and the enduring impacts of colonial legacies.
Quote from Kate O’ Shea
“Developing Networks of Solidarity in 2021 with Enya Moore deepened my understanding of land and diaspora within settler colonialism, driving my commitment to exploring colonial legacies and strengthening solidarity networks. The Fremantle Arts Centre Residency creates a connection with communities on Whadjuk Nyoongar Boodjar Country, which will help to foster long-term relationships and solidarities between Ireland and Australia. I aim to investigate the role of song, print, and textiles in challenging dominant narratives, using my Travelling Social Movement Archive studio to share stories that resist the individualism of late capitalism. Through large-scale installations shaped by community engagement, I seek to create a framework for the evolving experiences of the residency.”
About Fremantle Arts Centre Residencies
FAC’s Studio Program offers artists across all disciplines the opportunity to explore and develop their work within a vibrant and supportive environment. Residencies range from one to six months, and artists are provided a studio tailored to their practice. The program fosters innovation and collaboration, creating a dynamic community for artistic exploration.
About IMMA
The Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA) is Ireland’s National Cultural Institution for Modern and Contemporary Art. IMMA’s programs include exhibitions, commissions, and projects by leading Irish and international artists.
Join us in welcoming Kate O’Shea to Fremantle Arts Centre and stay tuned for updates on her residency and community-focused projects.
You can follow Kate here:
Instagram: @kateosheaartist
FRI NIGHT 5pm–9pm | 50 Stalls | Food | Bar | Sabrina Hahn Book Launch
SAT + SUN 9am–5pm | 50 stalls | Coffee | Food | Bar | Kids Activities | Frané Lessac Storytime | FAC Yeah! Choir
Bazaar Christmas Makers Market 2024 is back, bigger and better than ever! This weekend, dive into three unforgettable days of festive shopping, summer vibes, and the best of WA’s local artisans at the Fremantle Arts Centre. From Friday, November 29 to Sunday, December 1, FAC’s beautiful heritage grounds will transform into a vibrant marketplace where creativity and craftsmanship take centre stage.
With 50 stalls brimming with WA-designed treasures, Bazaar Christmas Makers Market is your go-to spot for unique, handcrafted gifts this Christmas. Think stunning fashion, homewares, jewellery, ceramics, textiles, toys, prints, and so much more – all made with love by some of WA’s finest makers. There’s no better way to tick off your holiday shopping list while supporting local talent!
Where Fremantle Arts Centre, 1 Finnerty St, Fremantle
Entry $2
More info fac.org.au/whats-on/post/bazaar-christmas-makers-market-2024
What’s On:
- Friday Night Kickoff (5pm–9pm):
Meet WA’s gardening guru, Sabrina Hahn, at the launch of her latest book, How To Do It In The Garden, at 6pm, followed by a signing session in the courtyard. With festive vibes, food, and drinks flowing, it’s the perfect start to the weekend. - Saturday & Sunday (9am–5pm):
- Whimsical Storytime with Frané Lessac: Renowned author and illustrator Frané Lessac will enchant families with readings from her beloved children’s books.
- Kid’s Creative Haven (9am–1pm): The inner courtyard will come alive with toys, storytelling, and art activities – perfect for little ones to explore and enjoy.
- Festive Sing-Along (Sunday afternoon): Don’t miss a heartwarming performance by our very own FAC Yeah! Community Choir, bringing the joy of Christmas to life.
Treats All Weekend:
From specialty coffee to delicious eats and the FAC Bar, indulge in delicious treats all weekend – because you deserve it!
Why Bazaar?
With a 20+ year history of excellence, Bazaar Makers Market is a trusted favorite for unique, high-quality, and original gifts. This year promises even more excitement, with a mix of premium shopping, exclusive performances, and community charm.
Support emerging makers through the FAC Incubator Program, featuring fresh talent in their first five years of business. Plus, shop from Indigenous creators and celebrate the rich cultural diversity of WA’s artisan community.
Whether you’re basking in the summer sun or soaking in the glow of fairy lights, Bazaar Christmas Makers Market 2024 is the perfect way to celebrate the season, support local talent, and find meaningful gifts.
See you there.
Fremantle Arts Centre are thrilled to announce a special guest for one of the biggest names in UK jazz, Nubya Garcia, on her highly anticipated ‘Odyssey’ Australian tour kicking off this month!
Opening proceedings at the show on Saturday, 26 October, will be Drea.
London-born saxophonist, composer and bandleader Nubya Garcia brings a refreshing take on the genre – redefining what it means to be a jazz musician in the modern era. Garcia is the epitome of musical creativity, fusing elements of dub, R&B and classical styles together with her commanding tone and fierce compositions.
Nubya opens her Australian tour at the Melbourne International Jazz Festival, before heading to Sydney’s Oxford Art Factory and finally a Western Australia show at Fremantle Arts Centre Front Garden.
“her tone is gorgeous, her musical intuition perfect” – NPR
“a gripping jazz odyssey” – UnderTone Blog
“history-making jazz in a London accent” – The Guardian ★★★★
Final tickets available via Nubya Garcia: Odyssey – Fremantle Arts Centre (fac.org.au)
SUNDAY MUSIC KICKS OFF WITH EPIC FIRST NATIONS LINE-UP HOSTED BY FLWENT
Fremantle Arts Centre has the pleasure of announcing the return of both Sunday Music, a free outdoor concert series, and Fremantle Community Bank as its major sponsor.
The 2024/25 season opens on Sunday 6 October with, FLEWNT presents The New Wave – a high energy all ages Hip Hop Party introducing the “New Wave” of emerging WA Hip Hop excellence! Hosted by FLEWNT, Noongar| Wongi rapper, mentor and activist, the show will feature JJ VACANT with special guest Taija, and introduce Adriel , KingOTB, and The Proud Noongar Boys with DJ Optamus (from Downsyde) on the decks.
This year’s superbly curated program promises to be a celebration of diversity; an eclectic mix of local and national artists spanning genres from soulful country and indie rock to Afro beats and experimental jazz.
As the local music landscape continues to shift post the COVID-19 pandemic, Sunday Music offers a solid platform that supports both emerging and established talent, providing a rich and dynamic music experience for the community.
Director of Creative Arts and Community for the City of Fremantle, Pete Stone, commented, “We are thrilled to announce this highly anticipated season of Sunday Music that reflects the diversity and energy of music in Australia. Courtyard Music at Fremantle Arts Centre began in 1981, 23 years on Sunday Music has become a cornerstone of the Fremantle music scene. It provides unique opportunities for audiences to connect with artists and it’s a joy to see our community come together in this beautiful setting to celebrate our incredible local and national musical talent.”
Debra Rule, Chair of Fremantle Community Bank shared their excitement, ‘We’re very proud to be supporting Sunday Music; a remarkable program that brings our community together, provides a platform for emerging and established local musicians and celebrates the best that Freo has to offer.”
The 2024 program will see Fremantle audiences treated to a wide variety of musical acts:
- OCT 13 Experimental jazz-fusion group GunFu, whose members draw on influences from jazz, West African, and Cuban music. Sharing the stage with them will be Fremantle’s own Butter, a seven-piece neo-soul collective known for their infectious rhythms and modern boom-bap sound.
- OCT 20, the spotlight turns to country music as Jonny Fritz and Nashville’s Joshua Hedley bring their unique blend of honky-tonk and western fiddle to the stage, joined by Tasmania’s Ange Boxall, whose ARIA chart-topping album “Skipping Stone” has cemented her as a leading figure in the country music scene.
- OCT 27 is a wild female line-up with WA Badass Gospel Choir (Abbe May, Ofa Fotu and Joni Hogan) singing all your pop favs from the 90’s + 2000’s while Veronikka will finish off the set with healing good vibes.
- NOV 3 Kim Salmon, often referred to as the “Godfather of Grunge”, will take to the stage showcasing his legendary rock influence alongside Claire Birchall.
- NOV 17 features Timothy Nelson and The Infidels, celebrating their 10th anniversary, alongside rising star Finn Pearson and his band, who have been making waves in the alt-country pop genre with their emotive, folk-inspired sound.
- NOV 24 will be all about folk sounds with Heathcote Blue and Nika Mo tapping into nostalgic feels with a playful energy.
- DEC 8 as the holiday season approaches, Dave McCormack of the iconic Australian band Custard (and more recently voicing the beloved dad, Bandit Heeler, in Bluey) will revive his famous, off-the-rails Christmas show, promising all the charming chaos and quirky energy fans have come to expect.
- DEC 15 features high-energy performances from the TTT Afro Band, whose rhythmic, percussive sounds are sure to get audiences dancing. The band is led by master percussionist Moses Odartei and promises to deliver a powerful Afro-beat experience that transcends borders and unites music lovers.
- DEC 22 Sunday Music offers an unforgettable Christmas special on December 22, headlined by Fremantle’s Natalie Gillespie and FAC’s own community choir, FAC Yeah!
Sunday Music is a family-friendly, free event from 2pm – 4pm in FAC’s front garden. Attendees are encouraged to bring a picnic or enjoy the food trucks and bar, soaking up the sunshine while enjoying the impressive range of musical talent.
Keep an eye out in November for the 2025 Program.
SUNDAY MUSIC 2024 PROGRAM
OCT 6 FLEWNT presents The New Wave
OCT 13 GunFu | Butter
OCT 20 Jonny Fritz + Joshua Hedley | Ange Boxall
OCT 27 WA Badass Gospel Choir | Veronikka
NOV 3 Kim Salmon with Claire Birchall | The Macho Men
NOV 17 Timothy Nelson & The Infidels + Finn Pearson Band
NOV 24 Heathcote Blue + Nika Mo
DEC 8 Dave McCormack + Emily Barker
DEC 15 EDWARD + TTT Afro Band
Internationally Celebrated Psychedelic Rockers Rose City Band to Ignite Fremantle Arts Centre with Cosmic Cowboy Sounds
Get ready to embark on a cosmic journey as Rose City Band lights up the stage with big Spring energy at Fremantle Arts Centre on TUE 15 OCT, presented by Fremantle Arts Centre. The Portland, Oregon-based ensemble, led by the celebrated guitarist, singer and songwriter Ripley Johnson (known for his work with Wooden Shjips and Moon Duo), are bringing a world-renowned live performance to FAC.
“Whether by accident or through design, Rose City Band have built a reputation as one of the most potent live acts in circulation, the kind of a celebrated cult name who are guaranteed to draw a crowd wherever they go,” said Janne Oinonen for The Yorkshire Post.
Rose City Band’s unique blend of country psychedelic rock paints vivid soundscapes of the American West, capturing the spirit of freedom and the beauty of the open road. With their latest album, Garden Party, the band celebrates the joys of warm weather and the simple wonders of nature.
Garden Party has been hailed by critics for its sunny, laid-back vibe. As Loud and Quiet Magazine notes, the album is a celebration of “sun-baked summer fun,” with an engaging and soothing relaxed groove.
According to Loud and Quiet, “Johnson’s aversion to fireworks and straining too hard makes for beautifully alluring, warmly inviting sounds that are much more than the sum of their uncomplicated parts.”
According to The Yorkshire Post, Rose City Band has built a reputation as one of the most compelling live acts, a testament to their captivating performances across the globe.
This upcoming show at Fremantle Arts Centre will offer a rare opportunity to witness the band’s live energy firsthand in Fremantle.
EVENT INFO:
Purchase Tickets: https://fac.oztix.com.au/outlet/event/67b8bb03-4d01-4124-8b1e-9863428e201e
Date: Tuesday, 15th of October
Venue: Fremantle Arts Centre, Front Garden
ENDS
For more information or media enquiries, please contact:
Kassandra Zaza
kassandraz@fremantle.wa.gov.au
About Fremantle Arts Centre
Fremantle Arts Centre is a leading cultural venue in Western Australia, known for its diverse program of music, visual arts, and community events.
BiRDMAN PERFORMED LIVE IN CONCERT BY GRAMMY-WINNING COMPOSER ANTONIO SÁNCHEZ AT FREMANTLE ARTS CENTRE
- BiRDMAN Live on FRI 18 OCT 2024 at Walyalup Fremantle Arts Centre
- Grammy-award winner Antonio Sánchez performing his original score
Performed in London and Los Angeles to standing ovation, Antonio Sánchez will bring his groundbreaking original solo jazz percussion score live to FAC alongside a special 10th anniversary screening of Alejandro G. Iñárritu’s critically acclaimed film.
“This is such an original approach, and you can’t image the film any other way once you’ve seen it,” BiRDMAN actor Michael Keaton said of the show.
Sánchez’s rhythmic genius is not just a soundtrack but a crucial narrative element, with Director Alejandro G. Iñárritu praising the drums as “a great way to find the rhythm of the film.”
This live performance, as praised by The Guardian, will “inject a vitality that maps out the emotions of the film’s characters with precision,” while maintaining a fresh and improvisational edge.
Join us for an unforgettable evening as Sánchez’s dynamic drumming interacts with the film’s striking visuals, creating an immersive experience under the stars at Fremantle Art Centre’s stunning heritage grounds.
ENDS
For more information or media enquiries, please contact:
Kassandra Zaza
kassandraz@fremantle.wa.gov.au
About Antonio Sánchez
Sánchez is a composer, multi-instrumentalist, mixer and producer who is among the most influential and versatile drummers in the world.
About Fremantle Arts Centre
Fremantle Arts Centre is a leading cultural venue in Western Australia, known for its diverse program of music, visual arts, and community events.
Purchase Tickets: https://fac.oztix.com.au/outlet/event/ccffbe6b-58b1-4f4d-9475-cc2597786ec1
CARIBOU MAKES DECADE-LONG AWAITED RETURN TO PERTH!
- Caribou Live on TUE 7 JAN 2025 at Walyalup Fremantle Arts Centre
- Supported by Bad Whip (LIVE)+ Rok Riley (DJ) & Ben Taaffe (DJ)
The wait is over – Caribou, project of acclaimed producer and musician Dan Snaith, is setting out on an Australian tour and will be returning to WA for an electrifying performance on Tuesday 7th January at the Walyalup Fremantle Arts Centre. This marks the first time Caribou has graced Perth with their full four-piece ensemble that is Caribou Live since 2015, and fans are eagerly anticipating their long-awaited return.
Caribou’s Fremantle Arts Centre show will feature special guest Bad Whip (LIVE) and beloved DJ locals, Rok Riley and Ben Taaffe.
The announcement follows the recent launch of Caribou’s new album, Honey, and their upcoming appearance at the New Year’s Eve festival ‘Lost Paradise’. Honey is the follow-up to the critically acclaimed 2020 album Suddenly, which The Guardian hailed as “perfectly imperfect pop” and awarded 5/5 stars. In his sixth Caribou album, Snaith explores new musical territories – the record grabs you and moves you like his other alter-ego Daphni, before cradling and uplifting you in classic Caribou style. This new record exemplifies Snaith’s ever-evolving artistry and his boundless enthusiasm for creating groundbreaking music.
“I’m still chasing that thrill of when something hits really hard and I find myself jumping up and down or the hairs standing up on my arms in excitement,” Snaith shares. “How lucky am I that that’s never gone away? That the chance of making something new and exciting is still as exhilarating as ever. It still seems like a kind of alchemy.”
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For more information or media enquiries contact Kassandra Zaza kassandraz@fremantle.wa.gov.au
About Caribou:
Caribou, the musical project of Dan Snaith, has been a driving force in the world of electronic and indie music since 2005. With a discography that includes celebrated albums like Swim and Our Love, Caribou continues to push the boundaries of music with a unique blend of electronic beats and emotive melodies.
Fremantle Art Centre (FAC) is excited to announce Katie Breckon as the successful applicant of our annual exchange program, this time in collaboration with Irish Museum of Modern Art.
Born in New Zealand, Katie Breckon’s time living in the Kimberley region of north-west Australia has deepened her connection to remote environments and emotive landscapes.
Her practice, both rhythmic and meditative, serves as a form of acknowledgment and catharsis, exploring the cultural, ecological, and psychological impacts of disconnection and belonging.
Breckon’s practice incorporates techniques and materials integral to her overarching narrative, including incised drawing with ink made from charred ‘pest plants’ and historic wet plate photography.
IMMA’s diverse and ambitious program comprises exhibitions, commissions and projects by leading Irish and international artists.
While in residency, Katie will continue to explore themes relating to themes of belonging.
“The residency at the Irish Museum of Modern Art offers an incredible opportunity to explore historic collections that highlight the use and integration of natural materials in handmade craftsmanship.”
“At the core of my research and movement through Ireland are themes of belonging and diaspora, which I explore by tracing historic harvesting practices and examining the symbolism embedded in plants. Through this, I’ll engage with new landscapes and craft a language for questioning connections to place.”
Katie Breckon has a long history as a beloved member of FAC’s community.
“Fremantle Arts Centre has long been a favourite place to visit when passing through en route to or from the Kimberley,” Katie said.
“In 2023, I exhibited Backtrack, a collection of incised drawings, as part of Marawar-ak, a presentation of four independent exhibitions curated by Glenn Iseger-Pilkinton.”
“Prior to that, I enjoyed two short summer residencies at FAC where I experimented with three-dimensional drawing and prepared monoprints for an exhibition at PS Art Space.”
Fremantle Arts Centre will be posting updates on Katie’s residency, along with an upcoming announcement regarding the successful IMMA applicant who will be in residency at FAC.
You can follow Katie here:
www.breckon.co
Instagram: @katie.breckon
Incised paint on copper and aluminium substrate
Panels 95 x 120 cm
2023
ENDS
For more information or media enquiries, please contact:
Kassandra Zaza
kassandraz@fremantle.wa.gov.au
About IMMA
IMMA is Ireland’s National Cultural Institution for Modern and Contemporary Art. Our diverse and ambitious programme comprises exhibitions, commissions and projects by leading Irish and international artists, as well as a rich engagement and learning programme which together provides audiences of all ages the opportunity to connect with contemporary art and unlock their creativity.
IMMA is situated at the Royal Hospital Kilmainham, one of Ireland’s most historic sites.
The Fremantle Arts Centre is gearing up for a big summer of music, beginning next week, with two sold-out shows of Tones and I.
The ARIA award-winning artist is touring her new album Beautifully Ordinary nationally, with Perth’s own Coterie as the support band.
Tone and I’s only WA concerts will be at Fremantle Arts Centre’s South Lawn on Wednesday 4 and Thursday 5 September.
The South Lawn’s sensational summer program continues with Old Mervs on 14 September, The The on 17 November and Wallows on 5 December. Tickets to these shows are already on sale.
The sound of 1,000 voices will fill the South Lawn when the Born to Sing community choir performs on 7 and 8 December.
Adding to the mix, announced yesterday, is Gamilaraay singer songwriter Thema Plum set to perform on 2 November, with tickets on sale tomorrow.
Plum is on tour with her sophomore album, I’m Sorry, Now Say It Back – her first full length release since her debut album Better in Blak, which deftly captured what it’s like to be a young Aboriginal woman in Australia and became one of the most successful albums of 2019.
City of Fremantle Director of Creative Arts and Community Pete Stone encouraged people to check Fremantle Arts Centre’s socials or join the mailing list to be the first to know about live performances.
“We’re thrilled to put together a diverse line-up of artists this summer. There is something for everyone and we have more exciting announcements to come next month for shows in early 2025.
“Our ever-popular Sunday Music series will return to the Front Garden this October. These curated, free, family-friendly live performances showcase a variety of talent every weekend throughout summer. There really is no better way to spend a Sunday afternoon than at the Fremantle Arts Centre,” Mr Stone said.
Other not-to-be-missed programming in the Front Garden through October and November includes Rose City Band, Birdman in Concert with Antonio Sanchez, Nubya Garcia, San Cisco and The Huxleys Present: Dance This Mess Around. Head to fac.org.au to buy tickets.
Fremantle Mayor Hannah Fitzhardinge said the City is proud to support the live music industry.
“As a local government we play an important role both in nurturing young, local musical talent as well as attracting national and international acts for our community to enjoy.
“We are lucky to have such a beautiful venue in the Fremantle Arts Centre that can host both large and intimate audiences across all types of musical genres.
“I applaud the City’s creative team for their efforts in curating a great summer of music in Fremantle,” Mayor Fitzhardinge said.
ENDS
Media Enquiries
kassandraz@fremantle.wa.gov.au
There’s still time to immerse yourself in the beautiful artworks by some of WA’s most exciting new and emerging artists at landmark Western Australian Aboriginal art exhibition Revealed, but you’ll have to hurry!
The Revealed 2024 exhibition will close on 4 August for the last time at Fremantle Arts Centre where it has been held for almost a decade.
This is the last chance for audiences to see more than 150 artworks, with almost 70 artists representing 27 WA Aboriginal art centres, plus 12 independent artists.
Since moving to Fremantle Arts Centre in 2013, Revealed has grown into the huge success it is today, with the 2024 edition finishing on a high note.
The Revealed art market has long provided an ethical, direct avenue for purchasing art by WA Aboriginal artists and in 2024 sold more than $420,000 of art in seven hours, up by almost 25% on last year.
Revealed is known for championing new and emerging First Nations artists and in 2024 it moved to the leadership of the Aboriginal Art Centre Hub of Western Australia (AACHWA), ushering in a new era of self-determination.
AACHWA Chief Executive Officer Chad Creighton thanked the team at Fremantle Arts Centre for their invaluable contribution to Revealed over the years.
“Fremantle Arts Centre have demonstrated excellence and leadership, be it in their curation of the Revealed exhibition in the past or their care for WA Aboriginal artists as presentation partners for this year’s market and exhibition,” Mr Creighton said.
City of Fremantle Director of Creative Arts and Community Pete Stone said Fremantle Arts Centre was honoured to have been part of the history of Revealed, which has become a highlight in the Western Australian arts calendar.
“We are proud to have given WA audiences the opportunity to immerse themselves in First Nations art and stories,” Mr Stone said.
“As an Aboriginal-led organisation with deep connections to WA’s Aboriginal artists, AACHWA will bring something special to Revealed and we look forward to seeing where they take it next year and into the future.”
AACHWA will be announcing exciting changes to 2025 Revealed program soon. These changes will reflect AACHWA’s unwavering commitment to art creation, cultural strength, best practice, and the wellbeing of Aboriginal artists.
For further information, interviews or images please contact:
AACHWA – Program Manager, Glenda Dixon; email glenda@aachwa.com.au or AACHWA CEO, Chad Creighton; email ceo@aachwa.com.au phone 08 9200 6248.
Fremantle Arts Centre – Marketing and Communications Manager, Prudence Riley; email prudenceri@fremantle.wa.gov.au phone 08 9432 9555 / 0427 267 282.
About AACHWA:
The Aboriginal Art Centre Hub of WA (AACHWA) is the peak advocacy and resource agency for Aboriginal art centres in Western Australia, and the only Aboriginal-led and governed body of its kind. It was established in 2009 to meet a sector need identified during Revealed and was incorporated in 2015. Led by an Aboriginal board of directors drawn from member centres across WA’s administrative regions, AACHWA’s primary objective is to celebrate the strength of Aboriginal art and culture by promoting, empowering, and connecting over 2,000 artists across 40 communities over 2 million square kilometres, with the aim of encouraging sustainable growth and commercial stability.
