The Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) and the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) are welcoming artwork submissions from Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal artists to feature on a rescue aircraft.
The selected artwork will be reproduced on a Challenger 604 rescue aircraft, which is part of the AMSA search and rescue fleet. In addition to the highly visible orange and black “AMSA Rescue” branding, the selected artwork will become a prominent feature of the aircraft.
TSRA Chairperson Napau Pedro Stephen AM said the opportunity offered local artists further exposure and a new platform to showcase their work.
“The selected piece will promote the Torres Strait region through its maritime theme, and reinforce AMSA’s vision; safe and clean seas, saving lives,” Mr Stephen said.
AMSA Chief Executive Mick Kinley said AMSA was excited to be working with the TSRA to include local artwork on one of its search and rescue aircraft.
“The aircrafts provide a vital community service throughout Australia, and across our vast search and rescue area. This is a great opportunity to promote and showcase both the Torres Strait region and AMSA’s key role in keeping the seas safe and clean,” Mr Kinley said.
The artwork must be 2D and rectangular in shape so it can be wrapped around the front of the aircraft.
To be eligible, artists must:
- be a Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal person/s
- live in the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area region
- be of Torres Strait Islander or Aboriginal heritage
- include artwork name and story in their submission.
- Existing Gab Titui Cultural Centre registered artwork may be considered; however, artists must specifically request its usage via a formal EOI process.
Expressions of Interest close 18 March 2022. Submissions must be received by 4:00pm AEST 18 March 2022.
Expression of Interest Forms are available online here or by contacting the Culture Art and Heritage Programme on 07 4069 0888 or email info@gabtitui.gov.au