In November 2024, Bana Yirriji Art Centre hosted an arts development workshop led by Edwina Circuitt, focusing on studio management and artistic development—the workshop built on previous initiatives such as IACA’s Belonging Project.
Doreen Collins, the newly appointed art centre studio coordinator, worked closely with Edwina to learn best-practice studio management, exhibition curation and installation.
The workshop resulted in a breathtaking series of paintings created by key artists such as Anne Nunn, Lila Creek, Junibel Doughboy, and Doreen Collins herself. Doreen and Edwina installed the works in Bana Yirriji Art Centre’s beautiful gallery to celebrate the artist’s achievements. Assistant manager Junibel Doughboy organised a fun exhibition opening for friends and family to preview the works and celebrate the artist’s accomplishments.
Tragically, just weeks later, disaster struck as Cyclone Jasper wreaked havoc upon Wujal Wujal Community, causing devastating flooding and destroying the art centre. Recounting the harrowing experience, artist Lila Creek explained, “All my paintings were up in the trees and covered in mud. We also saw our paintings and art materials carried away in the floodwaters. It was so terrible to see.”
Despite the immense destruction, there were no reports of serious injuries or fatalities. However, the community bore the brunt of displacement, with national and international media capturing the dramatic scenes of Wujal Wujal residents being evacuated by Chinook Helicopters to Cooktown. Many residents were then subsequently relocated to temporary accommodations in Cairns.
In the face of adversity, Bana Yirrji Art Centre has been grateful for the outpouring of support from various entities, including Arts Queensland, the Office for the Arts (IVAIS), Indigenous Art Centre Alliance, Cairns Regional Council (Tanks Art Centre), and Northsite. These partnerships facilitated the establishment of a temporary studio space for the displaced artists at the Tanks Art Centre, providing artists with a nurturing environment to continue their artistic endeavours.
Expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support received, the focus now shifts to the arduous task of rebuilding Wujal Wujal’s infrastructure and homes to enable the community’s return. The Wujal Wujal Aboriginal Shire Council plans to procure a portable building to serve as a temporary studio for Bana Yirriji Art Centre. While the road to recovery may be long, the resilient spirit of the community and the unwavering support of allies ensure that the art centre will emerge stronger, albeit with time and concerted effort.
