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OPEN SPACE Spotlight: Emerging Producer Allyson Tas

Allyson is part of SPACED’s emerging producer program, OPEN SPACE. She recently assisted Loren Kronemyer whilst she was the artist in residence at Cannery Arts Centre, Kepa Kurl, Esperance and has offered us a reflection of her experience:

Loren Kronemyer’s approach to art is both immersive and collaborative. During her residency at the Cannery Arts Centre for SPACED’s Circular Economies project, I was able to observe her world-building process firsthand, watching as she brought fresh perspectives to our local spaces and uncovered new ways of connecting with the community. 

With her Metatechnician and emerging producers in tow, Loren explored how socially engaged art can breathe life into overlooked areas, transforming them into meaningful community hubs. For her E-Waste Buy-Back event, we reactivated the pizza oven, long dormant and layered in dust behind the print room, and heated it for three days straight to trade freshly made Margherita pizzas for unwanted electronics with the community. Surrounded by the oven’s warmth and vibrant yellow wattle blooms, the rustic space became an intimate, Italian-style gathering spot. In moments like these, I felt my role as emerging producer went beyond logistical support; I was part of the collaboration, helping facilitate spaces where art could meet community. 

Walking through our grounds now, it’s exciting to imagine what often-overlooked spaces like the back of the print room are capable of with fresh eyes and an open mind. 

Throughout the residency, Loren’s nurturing, collaborative approach made this experience not just about assisting but about learning and growing alongside her. Between the admin, the antics, and adventures—whether we were setting up events or capturing footage on a stormy beach—Loren imparted wisdom and insights, sharing her unique process and encouraging me to develop my own approach. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to immerse myself in her creative practice, as it’s given me invaluable skills and confidence that I know I’ll carry into future projects. 

Read more about the OPEN SPACE emerging producer program.

Image by Sarsby

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Explore our past programs

Know Thy Neighbour #3 (2021-23). Know Thy Neighbour #3 investigates notions of place, sites of interest, networks, and social relationships with partner communities.

Rural Utopias (2019-23). Rural Utopias is a program of residencies, exhibitions and professional development activities organised in partnership with 12 Western Australian rural and remote towns.