We are pleased to announce Walyalup/Fremantle-based artist Shupiwe Chongwe as the inaugural Western Australian participant in a new exchange program between the sā Ladakh Biennale in the Indian Himalayas and the Fremantle Biennale on the Indian Ocean. This pioneering collaboration connects both continents through long-form residencies, focusing on regenerative practices and interventions in times of a changing climate. It aims to foster environmentally responsive creative practices and awareness raising. Shupiwe will undertake a residency with the Parkhang Collective and the Likir pottery community in Ladakh, known for using traditional materials like sun-dried mountain clay, cow dung for kiln firing, and sulphur from hot springs. Raised in Fremantle, Shupiwe Chongwe creates sculptural and functional ceramic works inspired by nature, family, and culture. She works primarily with stoneware, as well as terracotta and wild clay, using traditional firing techniques to create organic, one-of-a-kind forms. Shupiwe’s journey with ceramics started from a young age, inspired by her father; well known Australian-Zambian ceramicist Njalikwa Chongwe of Zinongo Gallery (Fremantle). Her family connection to the discipline dates back even further, to her great great grandmother who was a practicing potter in Zambia. We congratulate Shupiwe and look forward to the outcomes of this exciting cultural exchange. This project is made possible with the support of Creative Australia (fb)

WORK WITH US!! 📣 We are on the look-out for a Creative Producer to join our team in the lead up to the next 2025 Fremantle Biennale and beyond. If you’re passionate about art, ideas and working with our communities to make a festival, this might be the gig for you! Head to our website or link via our bio for more info. Photo by @emmadaisy.photo [ID: a Biennale staff member wearing a bright blue and white branded t-shirt chats brightly to an audience member] (fb)