Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) is seeking expressions of interest (EOI) until early May from local Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander artists to create an artwork which will feature in Council’s Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).

The original artwork will be a visual representation of the Council’s commitment to reconciliation, learning, respect, and celebration of First Nations culture and heritage across the community.

TRC portfolio and spokesperson for People, Culture and Engagement, Councillor Melissa Taylor said the artwork would become the heart of the RAP.

“This artwork will represent our devotion to build a unified future which acknowledges the tapestry of the many stories and histories that have shaped our Region,” Cr Taylor said.

The selected artist will be commissioned to create a two-dimensional digital or physical artwork, including painting, drawing, printmaking, digital art, illustration, textiles and mixed media.

The commissioned artwork will need to:

• Inspire connection, collaboration and transformation,
• Acknowledge history and tradition,
• Imagine a vibrant future,
• Celebrate creativity, knowledge and culture as a source of pride; and
• Reflect the values of reconciliation.

“This is a great opportunity for artists who want to share their cultural experiences and knowledge with the wider Toowoomba Region community, and to celebrate that First Nations culture has shaped this Region for thousands of years and continues to do so today,” Cr Taylor said.

To express interest, please email a curriculum vitae, an artist statement detailing your cultural connection and artistic approach, and photographic examples of past work to TRC-RAP@tr.qld.gov.au by 5 pm Monday, 5 May 2025.

“A select number of artists will be shortlisted based on the expressions of interest that the Council receives. These artists will then be asked to produce a detailed concept proposal, including an artwork concept statement, detailed plans of the artwork specifying materials and fabrication, visuals such as sketches or models, and an estimation of costs,” Cr Taylor said.

“The successful artist will be notified by the week of Monday, 26 May 202,5 to discuss the next steps of delivery.”

The final artwork is scheduled to be completed by Wednesday, 20 August 2025.

If you have any questions regarding the EOI, please send an email to TRC-RAP@tr.qld.gov.au.