Creative Corner is proud to support acclaimed Western Australian photographer and visual storyteller Martine Perret through its auspicing program, helping bring her latest project, Saltwater Women of the Midwest: Ebb and Flow of Personal Stories, to life.
Recently awarded funding through the City of Greater Geraldton’s Community Grants Program, the project will celebrate the voices, experiences and deep connections to place of women living along the Midwest coast. The funding will contribute to graphic design, exhibition materials, transport of artworks, Yamatji arts involvement, and the creation of new creative content for the exhibition.
Over several trips across the Midwest, Martine has been documenting the stories of women whose lives are intertwined with the sea, from Geraldton and Dongara to Kalbarri and the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Through photography, video and immersive installation, the project explores themes of identity, resilience, connection and belonging.
The exhibition will feature large-format photographic portraits accompanied by personal stories and video works, creating an immersive experience that captures the unique rhythms of coastal life. The project also includes collaboration with audiovisual artist Roly Skender and original music by singer-songwriter Tilly Kelleher, blending imagery, soundscapes and storytelling to transport audiences into the heart of the Midwest coast.
A key component of the project is supporting emerging regional creatives. During the project’s development, Martine has worked alongside Yamatji artists, creating opportunities for mentorship, creative exchange and local artistic participation.
The long-term vision is to present Saltwater Women of the Midwest at the Museum of Geraldton’s Temporary Exhibition Gallery in October 2027, accompanied by a beautifully designed exhibition book documenting the stories, portraits and creative journey behind the project.
Creative Corner is delighted to support projects that amplify regional voices, foster creative development and showcase the incredible talent and stories emerging from regional Western Australia.
As Martine’s project unfolds, Saltwater Women of the Midwest promises to become a powerful celebration of the women, landscapes and communities that shape the Midwest’s identity.
