The Ferguson Valley has growing tourism potential, with the picturesque natural surroundings complemented by small and boutique wineries, breweries, and accommodation options. The Ferguson Valley’s position between the popular tourist attraction of the Wellington Dam mural, and the regional capital of Bunbury, makes it a prime location for a Public Art Trail.

In 2021, the Shire of Dardanup were successful in their grant application to the Department of Local Government, Sport and Creative Industries and received funding to develop a Public Art Trail Concept Plan, including comprehensive community engagement.

There is an opportunity for public art in the Ferguson Valley to reflect and enhance the existing attractions of the area. In order to do so, a considered and comprehensive framework and curatorial vision was required, to lead the Shire in their procurement of new public artworks.

Element Advisory were engaged by the Shire of Dardanup to develop a Concept Plan for the staged creation of a new public art trail throughout Ferguson Valley. This involved a three-month consultation process including engagement with local artists, Aboriginal Elders, businesses, neighbouring local governments, State Government, local residents and school children.

The consultation process culminated in an intensive artist charrette with four local artists, where the key principles and priorities of the Public Art Trail were determined and workshopped. The findings from this community engagement informed the development of the Concept Plan, with the Plan’s principles, priorities, and curatorial themes reflecting the public art needs and wants of the community.

The resulting Concept Plan delivered place-specific and practical theme visioning for new public artwork commissions. The Plan provides a comprehensive framework for the Ferguson Valley to develop an engaging and attractive public art trail that considers the Ferguson Valley’s existing natural and tourist attractions.