The Courthouse Gallery+Studio is Hedland’s centre for creative activity but for the community it is much more than that.
Junction Co Executive Officer Katie Evans says the venue is a key community facility that serves as a valuable social hub where people can come together and make vital connections.
This can be especially important for new Port Hedland residents.
The facility features exhibitions to showcase established and emerging artists, studios for makers and also hosts regular workshops and residencies featuring local and visiting artists who share their skills and creative inspiration.
The Courthouse Gallery+Studio is run by The Junction Co based in Port Hedland’s old courthouse in Edgar Street in the Portside precinct. The not-for-profit was established in 2019, taking over the running of the gallery and studios for the Town of Port Hedland and has developed quickly into a popular local venue for exhibitions, events and gatherings.
“It was started by Pilbara residents for Pilbara residents,” Katie says.
“We see it as a venue where people can come regularly to see something different, to get some creative inspiration or just have a chat.
“We’re all about celebrating what’s on offer in the community.”
Katie paid tribute to the team of staff and volunteers who keep the gallery and studio thriving. “Our success is testament to the team. The people who run it are people in the community, and that helps make the place a real part of the community,” she says.
“It’s been described as a beacon of light in a harsh Pilbara life.”
The organisation provides opportunities for people to volunteer, either regularly or on a casual basis.
“It’s a great way to connect with the community and the creative industries in Hedland,” Katie says.
The Courthouse Gallery+Studio also hosts one of the most important exhibitions for regional WA artists. The Jury Prize is hosted at the gallery held each year, bringing together the best regional WA artists working in any medium, with a prize pool of $26,000, including a main Jury Prize of $10,000.
This year’s exhibition runs from May to August. To keep up to date with what’s happening, you can follow The Junction Co on social media, Facebook or Instagram, or go the website here to find out how to get involved.
