Vessel acknowledges the Whadjuk Noongar people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and practice. We recognise the importance of ‘Dwerda Weelardinup’ as a significant navigational and communication site.
We’d like to acknowledge that we are on Beeliar and Midgegooroo Country. We pay our respects and offer our gratitude for the immense care of Country that Elders past and present have, and are providing. Always was, always will be Aboriginal Land.
Regenerative Strategies by Gian Manik.
Photography by: G Louden
Where historic space meets contemporary art.
Transforming Naval Store into a place for dynamic, site-responsive creativity that sparks societal change.
An interdisciplinary exhibition space and non-profit contemporary arts organisation that explores and generates new ideas of change through art, creativity, experimentation and societal exchange.
All our work is guided by four strategieS:
01
Generate ideas and learn from diverse perspectives through public exchange
02
Cultivate artist connection, development and experimentation
03
Empower the voices of our time to be promoted and engaged in Western Australia
04
Collaborate to maximise impact
values & principles
Transparency: We are committed to open and honest communication, ensuring that our selection processes, partnerships, and operations are clear and accessible to everyone.Transparency shows a commitment to our democratic principles as an organisation and our dedication to it underlines our responsibility as a not-for-profit incorporated association.
Collaboration: Strong partnerships and collaborative efforts are fundamental to augmenting our social and cultural impact. We believe in building on existing diverse networks of organisations and individuals to enhance our collective strength and achieve shared goals.
Independence: Our independence is paramount; it ensures that our programming and organisational choices remain uninfluenced by external stakeholders. A diverse group of funders and board members supports this autonomy, allowing us to stay true to our artistic vision.
Equity: We believe in fair compensation for all contributors, recognising that a sustainable, professional environment is key to preventing burnout and promoting long-term viability. This approach supports a diverse and inclusive organisation by not limiting participation to those who can afford to volunteer.
Diverse Perspectives: Embracing a multitude of viewpoints is crucial for a rich and impactful output. We value the inclusion of varied cultural, social, and artistic lenses to enrich our understanding and expression.
Agile Structures: We embrace flexibility and an openness to change, with a focus on adaptable structures and systems. This allows us to navigate the unpredictable nature of the arts sector, prioritising direction and vision over rigid plans.
Experimentation: We prioritise creative risk-taking over playing it safe, fostering an environment where experimental and exciting art can thrive. This value reflects our belief in pushing boundaries and exploring new artistic territories.
Development and Learning: In our organisation, growth and education are continuous processes for everyone involved, in both creative or administrative roles. We advocate for lifelong learning, professional and personal development as core aspects of our culture.
Shared Leadership: When appropriate, our leadership model distributes power across the organisation to encourage participatory decision-making and collective accountability. This approach supports our commitment to democratic principles and helps create a sense of ownership among everyone involved in the organisation.
Our people
NON-EXECUTIVE
BOARD DIRECTORS
Annika kristensen
Annika is a highly experienced curator with a focus on commissioning contemporary art, public art, and engaging broader audiences. Her leadership enhances Vessel’s artistic vision. Annika has held curatorial positions at the Perth Festival, the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art, Melbourne and the Biennale of Sydney.
giorgia mack
Giorgia is an arts and development manager with extensive experience in partnerships and fundraising. Her experience at The Art Gallery of Western Australia and The Farm Margaret River strengthens Vessel’s fundraising, economic and strategic direction.
ISABELLA BOSWORTH
Isabella is an experienced corporate lawyer and non-executive director of Co3, the Contemporary Dance Company of WA. She has particular interest and expertise in the possibilities of growth through investment, spanning from philanthropy to social impact investment, to more traditional models of private equity and venture capital. Isabella brings governance, risk, legal and not-for-profit board expertise to Vessel.
adam jorlen
Adam is a futurist and entrepreneur who co-founded the Enkel collective and leads The Naval Store project. His expertise in fostering creative ventures, business start-ups and innovation is crucial to Vessel’s forward-thinking vision.
ZALI MORGAN
Zali Morgan is an Emerging Artist and Curator. A Whadjuk Balladong & Wilman Noongar woman, currently based in Boorloo | Perth. Zali’s multidisciplinary practice ranges across printmaking, textile, and sculpture. Currently, the Noongar residency program Curator at Goolugatup Heathcote and Creative Producer for Place Names Bayswater with Community Arts Network.
EXECUTIVE CO-DIRECTORS
nina juniper
Co-Director, Operations and Artistic Programs
Nina brings over 10 years of experience in the arts sector to Vessel’s leadership, with expertise in studio management, education, and exhibition programs. Most recently as Manager of The Naval Store and co-founder of CURRENT Gallery, she champions the creation of community spaces for the arts, while her extensive experience with national institutions and commercial galleries enhances Vessel’s outreach and partnerships. Her commitment to supporting both artistic and professional development, combined with her own visual arts practice and exhibition history, enriches Vessel’s vision and impact.
will ek uvelius
Co-Director Strategy, Communications and Engagement
Will is an interdisciplinary creative focusing on design thinking, art, and social justice. His experience spans creative strategy, cultural research, and design, together with co-founding the grassroots initiative CURRENT Gallery, his extensive experience in creative strategy enhances Vessel’s leadership and vision.
Vessel aims to create meaningful, transformative public experiences with contemporary art. Through an experimental and progressive program of exhibitions, artist residencies and cross-disciplinary events, Vessel commits to the pollination of ideas and knowledge sharing. Art becomes the vessel that can hold these conversations around what the future might and can be.
Thanks to our visionary supporters, we have started the transition of Naval Store into a cutting-edge arts centre.
But to push boundaries further and make art accessible to all, we need you.
Join us.
Help shape Western Australia's cultural future. Together, we'll create something extraordinary.
Contact usto discover how you can make a difference.