Action for Takayna
Art for Takayna
- 2027
- Annual art event
Where art meets action to protect one of Earth’s last wild places
About this event
Art for Takayna is more than an exhibition. It is a call to action.
Each year, artists travel into Takayna’s forests, rivers and coastline, immersing themselves in one of the world’s last great temperate wildernesses.
They create work that tells the story of a place under threat and inspires others to stand for its protection.
The story
What is Art for Takayna?
Art for Takayna is more than an exhibition. It's a call to action. Each year, artists journey into Takayna's forests, rivers and coastline to create work that tells the story of a wilderness under threat.
Artist Residency
For five days, artists camp deep in Takayna's remote wilderness, connecting with its landscapes, wildlife and the threats it faces. This immersion shapes powerful work that carries the forest's voice far beyond its borders.
Exhibition
The exhibition brings Takayna to life through painting, photography, music and sculpture created during the residency. Each piece captures the beauty and urgency of this place and invites audiences to stand for its protection.
Volunteer
Volunteers make Art for Takayna possible. By supporting remote base camps in northwest Tasmania, they help artists live and work safely in the wilderness and play a direct part in protecting Takayna.
Further information
What is the Art for Takayna Residency?
The Art for Takayna Residency is a five-day program where artists, creatives and nature enthusiasts are invited to experience the beating heart of Takayna, camping in remote locations. With frontline activists and campaigners as guides, participants draw inspiration from the diverse landscapes and ecosystems, creating art that reflects the beauty and significance of this ancient area.
Where do I apply for 2027?
Apply here by 10am on Monday 7 December 2026 to be considered.
Who can participate in the residency?
The residency trip is open to artists and creatives practicing in any medium, who are passionate about exploring wild places and protecting Takayna through their creative output
How much does it cost to attend the residency?
There is a minimal cost to participants ranging from $100 -$500 to help cover food and some costs.
What happens during the residency?
Artists need to come prepared for camping in remote environments in all weather. A sample itinerary is:
Thursday: arrive at the basecamp in Waratah Tasmania by 12pm, set up camp and check mandatory gear. Thursday evening will include a mandatory safety induction, and other group activities as well as opportunity to meet your fellow artists and the BBF campaign team.
Friday – Monday: participants split up into groups and relocate to remote campsites. Days in camp will be spent exploring the local environment, making art and collaborating with fellow creatives.
Campsites are staffed by volunteers who will help keep you safe and fed while you focus on your art practice. There are some camp options for mobility challenged people. Be sure to put your needs in your application.
Questions you will need to answer when you apply:
- Your name, contact details and age.
- If you have any accessibility requirements or medical conditions we need to know about to keep you safe and well.
- What medium you like to work in eg: Photography, drawing, painting, music, sculpture, etc.
- If you would consider having your art used for the Bob Brown Foundation campaigns or not.
- What level of wilderness experience do you have?
- Do you enjoy multi-day hikes, or prefer a base camp with basic kitchen and camp facilities you can drive to.
- What type of base camp you would like to be placed at:
- a house on the edge of Takayna with bunk beds suitable for less mobile people (very limited placements).
- a drive up base camp in Takayna with basic kitchen and camp facilities you can drive to.
- a multi day hike lead by expert guides deep into the Takayna Wilderness (very limited placements).
- Your name, contact details and age.
- If possible provide a link to some of your work
- Describe in 100 words or less, how your artistic practice will contribute to the campaign to protect Takayna after participating in the Art for Takayna residency
- Share any specific preferences for your camping arrangements, including individuals you'd like to share your space with or any particular requests for your camping companions.
- Any further comments
What is the Art for Takayna Fundraiser Exhibition?
The Art for Takayna Fundraising Exhibition is an annual event showcasing artworks inspired by Takayna. It features works for sale from artists who attended the residency.
How can I submit my artwork for the exhibition?
Artists who participated in the 2024, 2025 and 2026 residency program are invited to submit work for the Art for Takayna Exhibition 2026.
What kind of artworks are accepted?
We accept a variety of mediums, including paintings, sculptures, photographs, performance and multimedia installations. The artworks should reflect the beauty, diversity, and importance of Takayna.
Where is Waratah and how do I get there?
Waratah is a small town located on the edge of Takayna in north-west Lutruwita/ Tasmania. Options for getting to Waratah include driving yourself, car-pooling or (if there is demand) we will arrange some transport options for an additional cost.
How can I get more information?
For more information about the art residency and exhibition, please contact us at events@bobbrown.org.au
Are there any specific requirements for the artworks?
Artworks should be ready for display and, if appropriate, framed or mounted. Detailed guidelines about size, medium, and submission deadlines will be provided once you have been on the residency.
Can I participate in the exhibition without attending the residency?
Entry into the exhibition is only available to artists who have participated in the Art for Takayna residency program.