First Nations artists kickstart 2025 at Gab Titui

Zenadth Kes artists with Simone LeAmon and Culture and Art Heritage Program’s Amanda Manuel, John Morseau and Leitha Assan at the Gab Titui Cultural Centre

Torres Strait Regional Authority’s (TSRA) Culture Art and Heritage (CAH) Program recently hosted its first Artist Skills Development Workshop for 2025.

From 25-27 February, nine Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal artists gathered at the Gab Titui Cultural Centre to learn contemporary body and clothing adornment techniques from one of Australia’s most distinguished design professionals – Simone LeAmon.

Simone holds a Bachelor of Fine Art (Sculpture) and Master of Design (Industrial Design), with over two decades of experience working internationally as an artist, industrial designer, curator, industry consultant and university lecturer.

In the past, Simone has supported TSRA’s CAH Program to deliver the Torres Strait Lei Project and the Marep: Black Bamboo Project through the National Gallery of Victoria, where she is the Curator of Contemporary Design and Architecture.

She is a longstanding advocate and supporter of the Gab Titui Cultural Centre, collaborating with the CAH program to facilitate workshops that empower and inspire First Nations artists.

“It was a privilege to work with such a talented group of artists,” Ms LeAmon said.

“I have enjoyed sharing new techniques and jewellery skills that they can use into the future.

“It brings me great joy, and it’s always such a pleasure to be at the Gab Titui Cultural Centre because it is a centre of arts excellence,” she said.

TSRA Chairperson George Nona said a longstanding relationship with the National Gallery of Victoria enabled the workshop to advance the artistic careers of local designers.

“Our aim is to empower First Nations artists by fostering contemporary artistic practices, while honouring traditional cultural expressions,” Mr Nona said.

“Simone LeAmon and the National Gallery of Victoria share that vision and have supported the Gab Titui Cultural Centre in artist development opportunities.

“We are seeing a rise in First Nations people taking ownership of their cultural stories through fashion, design and textiles.

“TSRA is committed to supporting our region-based artists to explore these avenues to further diversify their artistic portfolios,” he said.

Workshop participant and Erub Arts artist Lavinia Ketchell said she enjoyed learning new techniques to add to her art portfolio.

“I found the process very interesting, and Simone has done a great job at showing us how to use the tools,” Ms Ketchell said.

“This was the first time I tried this technique and when I get back home, I’ll continue to develop them and incorporate them into my artwork,” she said.