Victorian Government aims for an increase in permanent public artworks created by women artists

Through its $1 million landmark Victorian Women’s Public Art Program, the Victorian Government aims to ensure an increase in the number of permanent public artworks celebrating women across the state and has announced the artists and projects that will be sharing in the funded program.

Of the 580 statues across Melbourne only nine depict real women – the program will address the significant underrepresentation by funding projects that recognise women and their achievements through mediums such as statues, sculptures and other enduring public art.

Victorian Minister for Women Gabrielle Williams notes “women have played a critical role in the economic, social and cultural development of Victoria and we should recognise these achievements just as equally as those of men.

“For far too long, women have been underrepresented in public places. This program is a step in the right direction and will ensure that there are lasting monuments that celebrate the remarkable achievements of Victorian women.”

“You can’t be what you can’t see. Our public spaces should accurately reflect the diversity of Victoria.”

The funding will commission artworks that honour the ongoing heritage, culture and stories of First Nations women across Victoria, pay tribute to the work of activists such as Stella Young and Zelda D’Aprano and carry the legacy of change makers like Dr Vera Scantlebury.

The program also supports women artists as each of the artworks will be created by women artists, in recognition that they are underrepresented in art media, commercial galleries and state museums compared to men.

Grants of between $50,000 to $200,000 have been awarded to organisations across Victoria, with applicants working in partnership with community and interest groups. The successful applicants of the program are:

• Creative Resilience, Queen Victoria Women’s Centre, Melbourne

• Yennega-Yettang/Come-See, Mildura Rural City Council

• Three Women on Kurnai Country, Baw Baw Shire Council

• Honouring Zelda D’Aprano, Victorian Trades Hall Council

• Vera: Linton War Surgeon, Golden Plains Shire Council

• Remembering Stella Young, Northern Grampians Shire Council

The program is being delivered through the Community Support Fund and the Women’s Portfolio. The artworks are due to be completed by November.

Image top: Queen Victoria Women’s Centre, Melbourne