Art is… building on ‘big issues’
Ateam of researchers is building on a conversation about the future of the Wimmera and Southern Mallee at Art is… festival event ‘New Roads Ahead’.
The team will look through community eyes to tackle the ‘big issues’, creating a dialogue between presenters and audience.
Wimmera academics Amity Dunstan, Amy Isham and Cathy Tischler will lead the discussion on June 1, hoping to explore the challenges and opportunities Wimmera people will face in the future.
Ms Tischler said this type of open discussion and debate was the first step in understanding community issues and laying a foundation for change.
“Wimmera people know their own communities better than anyone – but we can’t build a road unless we know what we want and need,” said.
“We need to understand issues to be able to resolve them, so it is important to have these discussions.
“And I hope there is debate, because I think that is where we can do our best work and make the best changes.”
The women’s research will form the basis of discussion, including topics of representation, cultural inclusion and agricultural challenges, with audience members also encouraged to voice their perspectives.
Ms Tischler said she was prepared to talk about polarising topics such as population growth, as the event aims to ‘challenge traditional thinking’.
“I’m happy to have those conversations,” she said.
“For instance, when it comes to population, is growth the answer? What is going to help us create a sustainable future?
“Another big thing for me is the question of how we can maintain relevance and importance in the political sphere.
“But we’re not approaching this from an academic perspective, we’re approaching this from a community perspective, and what is going to be possible to make a difference in our region.”
Ms Tischler said a thriving community was created when people supported each other into the future.
She said the event was therefore fuelled by the idea that talking to people directly in the community was key to answering ‘big questions’ and begin charting a new course for future children and grandchildren.
“Change happens when you talk to the right people in the right situation,” she said.
“It allows you to explore these issues and make progress, and those people to talk to are the people directly in the community.
“You don’t need to be on a directing board or council, this is an opportunity for everyday people to be part of a conversation for you and your community.”
New Roads Ahead will be from 2pm to 5pm at Federation University Auditorium, Baillie Street, Horsham.
People can buy tickets for $10, including afternoon tea, at www.artis wimmera.com/program.