• Carrolup native settlement mission housed children from 1945-51
• Artworks to be reunited with collection located at Curtin University

A small but significant collection of art produced by children at the Carrolup Mission has been transferred from the Department of Aboriginal Affairs for permanent loan to Curtin University.

Aboriginal Affairs Minister Peter Collier today handed over 21 artworks, letters and photographs created from 1945-51.

“The history and story of this collection is as tragic as it is fascinating,” Mr Collier said.

“The artworks were created by the Aboriginal children artists of the Carrolup native settlement mission; children who were part of what is now known as the stolen generations.”

The art program was developed and nurtured by headmaster Noel White and his wife Lily who were keen on ensuring the children maintained connection with their Noongar culture, and was used to overcome communication and cultural barriers.

“The items have been transferred to Curtin University, which also has custodianship of The Herbert Mayer Collection of Carrolup Artwork, which was transferred by Colgate University, New York in 2013,” the Minister said.

The Carrolup collection will be housed at Curtin’s John Curtin Gallery.

Fact File

• Marribank, also known as Carrolup, is located near Katanning
• 143 artworks now comprise the Carrolup Collection at Curtin University
• For more information, visit http://johncurtingallery.curtin.edu.au