Artist in Residence | Nicholas Kirkness

Returning to AWESOME International Arts Festival in 2026, DADAA is pleased to introduce another of the extraordinarily talented artists participating in its art studio and mentoring programs: Nicholas Kirkness.

Inspired by a lifelong passion for fishing, the water, and the rich biodiversity of Western Australia, Nicholas expresses his love of aquatic life through his creativity. Over the course of his creative development, Nicholas has amassed an impressive body of work, characterised by elaborate illustrations and ornate woodcarvings of the creatures he admires most. In a unique union of utility and art, Nicholas also crafts his own fishing lures, blending function with artistry and reflecting his hands-on relationship with his two greatest passions—creativity and the water.

You can find Nicholas at AWESOME International Arts Festival as this year’s Artist in Residence, where visitors are welcome to meet the artist, watch him work, and create some fishy art of their own.

PRESENTED BY: DADAA

ARTISTS AND CREATORS:

Nicholas Kirkness | Artist in Residence
Julie Barratt | DADAA Director Arts Strategy
Jemma Attwater | DADAA Arts Coordinator / Arts Worker
Murray Willis | DADAA Arts Coordinator / Arts Worker
Miles Bettis | DADAA Arts Worker

MAIN VENUE: Subiaco Arts Centre

ROOM: Gallery

AGES: All ages

TICKETS: Free

DURATION: Open all day

BOOK NOW: https://barkinggecko.com.au/awesome-festival/subiaco/2026-artist-in-residence-nicholas-kirkness