By Lynn Whyatt
The sunsets are unlike anything you’ve ever seen, painting the horizon with a palette of colours that can only be found in the remote landscapes around Broome. The drive up to Willie Creek Pearls from Australind in the south west catalogues the contrasting landscapes of Western Australia: lush forests become sparse shrubs become red dirt and twisted trees. But if you look closely, you can see the silver shining in those twisted trees and begin painting an entire landscape in your mind, which is what Donna Fortescue, artist, traveller, and sculptor does when she makes the trip four to five times a year.
Donna is the Artist in Residence at Willie Creek Pearl Farm. She finds inspiration in the unique contrasts of the region, where the sculptural trail for Willie Creek Pearls weaves through the vast beauty of the Australian outback as an informative artistic experience for guests who are lucky enough to visit this breath-taking pearl farm. Influenced by the land and capturing its stories, Donna is also part of the founding family of Willie Creek Pearls – the Banfields; Director Robert Banfield is Donna’s brother, who appreciates her visits not only for her artistic contributions, but also because of the caretaking duties his sister fulfils to help keep the family farm thriving. That, and the chance to catch up with family is always a good time.
Donna’s artistic journey is not just about the physical creation of sculptures; it’s about the mental painting that happens during those long, slow drives. Imagining colour schemes, learning the theory of colour at TAFE with friends, and turning the challenges of the road into opportunities for creativity – her journey is as magical as the sunsets she eagerly awaits.
Donna’s connection to this region is a tale of adventure and inspiration. Her sculptures, born from the beauty of the land, are not mere creations but reflections of the vibrant contrasts that define Broome. The slow, 80-90 kilometres per hour journey from her home in Australind to Broome takes about three days with her husband and biggest supporter along for the adventure. Driving is easier on the pieces of art they haul in the trailer and allows her to absorb every detail of the changing scenery, and sometimes call into a country café for a scone on the way.
The heat, the dust storms, the flies – challenges that Donna takes in her stride – are a part of life for those that live and work in Broome. When reassembling her sculptures after the long journey, Donna must adapt to the harsh environment and navigate the complexities of welding her sculptures in the intense heat with sheer determination. The scorching temperatures, particularly taxing when welding, demand a Herculean effort. Clad in facemasks, grinding gear, goggles, and ear muffs, Donna battles the searing heat. The sweat becomes an unavoidable companion, a testament to her dedication to her craft. Yet, in the midst of this challenging environment, Donna’s artistic spirit perseveres, and her sculptures, born from the fusion of creativity and tenacity, stand as a testament to the resilience of both the artist and the region she calls home. Recognising that she cannot compete with the elements, Donna does most of her design and creation in her retired husband’s workshop at their home in Australind.
For Donna, community is both in Broome and in her home in the south west. Family ties run deep. When her father passed away at the age of 51, Donna’s mum drew the five of them together and they have been extremely close for the last 25 years, talking every single day. Donna is also connected to a network of friends from rowing, which she does every morning when in the south west. Donna remarks that her networks from rowing, volunteering at her son’s football club, and fellow artists are incredibly supportive and helpful. Donna’s influence on her community is palpable. Through volunteering, participating, and being an active member, she not only contributes to the social fabric but also draws strength from it. Her involvement in the rowing club and football community becomes a reciprocal relationship, providing her with the support and encouragement needed to thrive in the challenging environment.
Living in a remote region brings unique challenges, which is why strong networks are so important for those living in the regions. The distance, the isolation, and the logistical nightmares of transporting sculptures become hurdles to overcome. Learning new skills, planning meticulously for the transportation challenges, and leveraging the support of friends and her retired husband become essential parts of her toolkit.
Donna’s advice to other RRR women is simple yet profound. Get involved, join local groups, participate in community events, and cherish connections. Living remotely doesn’t have to equate to loneliness. Donna’s daily conversations with her close-knit family, her involvement in various community activities, and her positive outlook exemplify that thriving in isolation is possible.
Donna envisions a future where RRR women play an even more significant role in their communities. She sees strength in the ability to adapt, connect, and thrive despite the challenges. Living remotely, according to Donna, is an opportunity to make lifelong friends, find positivity in every experience, and embrace the beauty that exists even in the most unexpected places.
As the sun sets over the vast landscapes of Broome and green scenery in Australind, Donna continues to create, adapt, and inspire. Her journey is a testament to the resilience of RRR women, the strength found in community, and the ability to find beauty in the contrasts of life. Donna’s story is a reminder that, even in the most remote corners of the world, there is art, there is community, and there is an unwavering spirit that refuses to be dimmed by the challenges of distance.
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Willie Creek Pearls | The Pearl of Western Australia | Broome Pearls