The State Government has announced $1million in funding for the City of Bunbury to upgrade facilities and improve community access to the Bunbury Regional Art Galleries.
Culture and Arts Minister Sheila McHale said the funding allowed Western Australia's largest regional gallery to undertake refurbishments that would maximise exhibition spaces and improve public engagement.
“The Government investment will lift the appearance and functionality of exhibition and reception areas, so visitors are able to fully appreciate and enjoy the quality art on display,” Ms McHale said.
“A lift will be installed to enable greater accessibility.”
The funding will also be used to establish the Internet Art Access Project, allowing the public and schools to access the gallery’s exhibitions, programs and activities via the Internet.
“The project also opens up a wide range of new opportunities for regional artists, enabling real-time access to global galleries and studios to promote collaborations,” the Minister said.
City of Bunbury Mayor David Smith said he was delighted the State Government had made this commitment to the Bunbury Regional Art Galleries (BRAG), which would allow the gallery to be a leader in presenting visual arts in the South-West.
“The gallery has a strong exhibition program featuring regional, national and international works and to be able to improve facilities will only add to the reputation of the gallery and enhance visitor experience,” Mr Smith said.
“BRAG celebrates its 21st birthday this year and to receive this funding means the gallery can continue to offer high quality visual arts exhibitions for many more years.”
Ms McHale said the State Government’s strong commitment to regional infrastructure for arts and culture was evidenced by a number of initiatives including the Community Cultural and Arts Facilities Fund (CCAFF) and the recently announced Regional Ignite program.
“Arts and Culture in the regions is vital in building vibrant and cohesive communities,” she said.
“Regional Ignite will provide $5.5million over four years for programs benefiting regional artists and communities, such as added support for festivals and increases in grants and touring programs.”
More information on the Bunbury Regional Art Galleries is available at http://www.brag.org.au
Minister's office - 9213 6900 
