Margaret River’s Creative Emergence festival returns after two years of disruption

The resurrected Emergence Creative festival is set to start next week, bringing a host of international talent to the region.

Brought back to life after two years of delays due to COVID-19, the festival is back with a vengeance, according to festival director Anita Pettit.

“Attendees can expect engaging keynote presentations, panel discussions, and interactive colabs covering a wide range of topics, including design, marketing, film, music, technology, and more,” she said.

“Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an aspiring creative, there will be something for everyone at this year’s festival.”

Earlier this year Emergence revealed its key talent list including creatives Steve Back, Nic Brunsdon, Charu Menon and Taryne Laffar, but this week outlined public events including its official launch on Tuesday night at Settlers Tavern.

A closing sundowner is set to be held at Russell Ord Gallery based at Edwards Wines on the last night, while the Rogue Elements component include pop-up events during the four-day festival.

Among those is a continuation of Cowaramup artist and Fugazi Gallery owner Callum Fairnie’s collaboration with artists in New York which last year saw local practitioners showcased in the Big Apple.

“Emergence is such a huge opportunity to connect with and hopefully set up future collaborations with the many creatives of this region and beyond,” Fairnie said.

“A highlight for me is to promote the ongoing collaboration between local artists and those from 3rdEthos in New York.

“We are giving Emergence attendees a special sneak peek of the upcoming Chopped Liver zine, co-created by Fugazi Gallery and Ree Van Kirk.”

Fairnie said the first edition of the zine focused on the shared experiences of artists from within the region and its twin scene in New York.

“We have asked a series of questions to both groups of artists, teasing out their deep-seated emotions and frustrations prevalent in the artistic communities here and in New York, with many shared examples of struggle,” he said.

To get on board with ticketed events or to find out more, visit emergencecreative.com.