Organisation history

Artsource began life in 1986 as the Fremantle Arts Foundation. It was formed with support of the State and Commonwealth Governments and also through the America’s Cup Office.

The Foundation was incorporated as a company limited by guarantee on July 6, 1986. With the assistance of the America’s Cup Office, Old Customs House, on the corner of Cliff and Phillimore Streets, was made available for studio and performance space. The building was later purchased by the State, and the Fremantle Arts Foundation undertook to manage it.

In order to reflect the state-wide distribution of its services and resources, the organisation changed its name in 1992 to the Artists Foundation of Western Australia (AFWA). From this time, the services including discounts, seminars and workshops, support and advocacy, information and advice became the bedrock for artists in WA.

In 1996, in response to the growing development of public art and the State Government Percent for Art Scheme, and in order to increase the professional opportunities for artists, AFWA established Artsource – the Artists Agency. The Agency was located in the newly renovated King Street Art Centre.

Artsource became the pre eminent place for clients to engage artists and for artists to go to for employment opportunities in WA. Like all good ideas, it wasn’t until it had been operating for several years, that the diversity and range of employment opportunities became clear. Artists are now sought for commissions, consultancy, advice, teaching, residencies, leasing and general purchase of work through the artsource mechanism.

In 2003, the organisation developed and began implementation of a program of professional development specifically geared to Indigenous and regionally based artists in WA. This work has become crucial for many artists and has created access to employment and other professional development for a previously overlooked sector.

By 2004, it was apparent that the organisation had outgrown its current name and after much consideration, it was decided to re-brand as artsource: the Artists Foundation of WA Ltd. The organisation continues its key role as a service organisation for artists, providing quality service combined with imaginative delivery.