Watch This Space (WTS) is an artist-led organisation established in 1993, manifesting publicly as a vital collective resource in Mparntwe. It is a site for experimentation, artistic expression, critical conversation and making. It is a place to make show & participate in art that is in constant conversation. WTS believes that art’s definition has broad and soft boundaries, and that everyone is invited. It is an artist-run initiative, where artists like their galleries to also be dance floors, cinemas, zine fairs, basketball courts, libraries and language classes; the artists are often interested in recognising arts inherent connection to politics, play and experimentation.
WTS is lucky to exist in the middle of a small town on Central Arrernte country, rich in artists and a history of thousands of years of creative making. This small town lies in the middle of the Central Desert region, richer still. This area is in the middle of the continent, affording WTS a unique proximity to here and elsewhere, connecting us to remote, rural and urban spaces alike.
WTS aims to present alternatives to institutionalisation, tokenization, and over-professionalisation of artists and the arts. It has been alive for over 30 years, moving through many sites and seasons overtime. It is currently based at 8 Gap Road, where it hosts a program of projects, workshops, film screenings, exhibitions and residencies. Many people make up its moving parts: currently two co-directors, seven studio artists, a First Nations advisory board, a strong membership base, curatorial committee, board of directors, and a volunteer crew both incidental and veterans. Many artists and collaborators joined in for one project and stayed for another, continuously moving with, and shapeshifting WTS – would you like to join?
The Director role is exciting and varied. In 2024, WTS’ operational model will be reimagined with a Director and part time support staff steering the creative and operational direction of the organisation.
The role requires strong arts administration skills, creative direction and community focus. With the support and collaboration of an part time WTS staff, you will coordinate and oversee all aspects of the exhibition, residency, events and special projects program, artists’ studios, venue and budget management and financial reporting as well as other creative projects. You will work autonomously and collaboratively, with support staff, the WTS Board, Curatorial Committee, First Nations advisory group, members, studio artists and volunteers. This is an incredibly rewarding role with a high degree of responsibility and the potential to contribute to the artistic and cultural life of the region.
The successful applicant will be involved in defining strategies for the organisation’s next chapter as 2025 marks the second round of our multi-year funding agreement with Australia Council for the Arts. Our aims are to nurture non-commercial, experimental artistic practice in Central Australia; improve access and participation in the arts; contribute to local and national sector development; and increase organisational sustainability.