Writing WA is proud to announce the launch of Changing the Conversation: Stories in All Spaces, a groundbreaking project funded by the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries. This dynamic program builds new bridges between writing and other creative fields, offering a series of immersive, often experimental experiences designed to reshape how literature is perceived across the community.
CEO Will Yeoman is thrilled to have state government support to bring this project to life.
‘This initiative perfectly aligns with Writing WA’s long-term vision to see the incredible work of our writers, poets and illustrators more fully integrated into a larger cross-disciplinary conversation where collaboration is key.’
Through collaborations with 10 local organisations between 2024 and 2025, the Writing WA team will deliver over 2,000 literary encounters, featuring 122 Western Australian voices across diverse and unexpected spaces. Audiences will explore unusual connections between literature and other artforms, highlighting the interdependence between writing and practices like science, architecture, and music.
Key highlights include:
- Panel discussions featuring writers, poets, and scientists
- A week-long residency exploring the history and architecture of New Norcia, Australia’s only monastic town
- A commissioned spoken word performance in collaboration with a percussionist and dancer
- Live soirees where improvising musicians respond to written works
- Architecture walk around Perth, with poets responding to urban landscapes in real-time
- A publication capturing oral stories from First Nations Elders
- Eco-friendly literary coasters, BookTok videos, and a Book-to-Film series featuring author discussions.
With key partners including Forrest Research Foundation, Charter Hall, the State Library of WA and Leschenault Press, Changing the Conversation is set to inspire a deeper engagement with literature and expand its role within the cultural fabric of WA.
Our first initiative is a Short Story Showcase that will feature themed works from WA authors between November 2024 and October 2025, in partnership with Raine Square and the State Library of WA. Our first activation is Stories with Pride. Entries are now open through the Love to Read Local website.