The relationship between Kelmscott-based studio Art Sanctuary Foundation (ASF) and the City of Armadale’s Arts Trail is a reciprocal one, says ASF committee member Sushant Krishnan.
By opening their space during the Trail, Mr Krishnan said the group created opportunities for people to explore the arts in a relaxed environment while contributing to the city’s emerging identity as a cultural and nature-led destination.
“(The Arts Trail) has helped us test and grow the types of experiences we plan to offer in the future,” Mr Krishnan said.
“It has also brought new volunteers, partners and audiences into our orbit.
“In turn, ASF has added a distinctive setting to the Trail.
“The natural landscape, forest walkways and open-air spaces offer a calm environment where art feels accessible, welcoming and connected to nature.
“With the contributions of Saraswati Mahavidhyalaya (SMV) and ChitAmbara, the Trail has also gained greater cultural diversity, bringing performance, heritage craft and visual arts from the Indian diaspora into the heart of the event.”
SMV presented a variety of performances at the weekend, ranging from body painting and dance to tabla and sitar music.
SMV artistic director Sukhi Krishnan said artists from the Perth Indian diaspora were invited to join to showcase their talent.
Ms Krishnan said each performance had its own unique touch and shared a different narrative.
“In general, I believe we all come from different backgrounds, but we all have similar stories of hope, love and strength in both femininity and masculinity and togetherness,” she said.
“Serving the community through the arts gives us such pride and joy.
“It’s also helping us, as a community, understand each other better as well as appreciate the diversity that we have.”
Photographs – Richard Polden.
