Spinifex Hill Studio recently renewed its partnership with principal partner BHP, securing $2 million in funding over three years to support the South Hedland Aboriginal art centre.

Spinifex Hill Studio Aboriginal Council chairperson Vickie Wagner said the Studio is vital to the community.

"Having Spini here means a great deal," she said.

"It's where people can come from all over, from out in the desert to all around, and get great opportunities.

"Having BHP sponsor us shows they care for our community."

The funding focusses on expanding the Studio's capacity through governance, empowerment, innovation, and economic development.

The Studio, located on Kariyarra Country, opened in 2014 and remains the only art centre in the Hedland area supporting both emerging and established First Nations artists.

Yolngu woman and Vice-Chairperson and Studio Technical Coordinator, Ruby Djikarra Alderton, highlighted the role of art centres as safe spaces for First Nations people.

"Art centres are one of the few places that are safe for our communities and Mob," she said.

"They provide safety in social environments, culture, grieving, healing, intergenerational exchange, and financial security. This is a space we know is welcoming."

Spinifex Hill Studio is unique as an urban-based centre representing artists from diverse cultural and language groups.

Artists produce award-winning contemporary works that are showcased in exhibitions locally, nationally, and internationally.

The Studio supports a wide range of artistic practices, reflecting the diversity of First Nations experiences.

Its Project Space features a rotating calendar of exhibitions, offering a platform for the community and visitors to engage with the Pilbara's creative practices.

The funding will also support professional development for the Studio's Aboriginal Council and staff, cultural preservation, and intergenerational knowledge sharing.

BHP Head of Corporate Affairs WA, Meath Hammond, said the company is proud of its collaboration with the Studio.

"Witnessing its growth and the achievements of its talented artists has been truly inspirational," he said.

"We're excited to renew our collaboration for another three years, building on our shared success in showcasing Indigenous leadership in the arts and strengthening the Pilbara's cultural fabric."

Since 2008, BHP has partnered with FORM Building a State of Creativity to support Spinifex Hill artists.

The partnership has included co-funding the Studio's construction in 2014, developing its online shop, and establishing the Project Space.

Studio manager Nick Zafir told Indigenous Business Review Spinifex Hill provides a cultural safe space for members of the Aboriginal community nationwide to develop sustainable careers in the visual arts industry.

"The studio represents opportunities, vision and a hopeful future for the artists, that are striving to push boundaries and celebrate Aboriginal culture," he said.

"We are seeing a slow increase of younger generations, males and also artists from around Australia as we adapt into new media and alternative forms of expression and art making to allow for the upcoming and diverse interests of our community. We are excited and feel incredibly lucky to be involved with the Aboriginal community in South Hedland as they power ahead proudly into new territory."

In the financial year 2023/24, fifty-four artists received a total of $270,000 between them for works sold via the Studio. In 2024/25 to date (July-December), 39 artists have received $127,000 from sales of their artwork.

FORM chief executive Tabitha McMullan expressed gratitude for BHP's continued support.

"This partnership, stretching back nearly two decades, has been instrumental in empowering the community through projects like Spinifex Hill Studio," she said.

"Beyond fostering arts and culture, this support reflects a shared vision for self-determination, ensuring the Studio continues to amplify Aboriginal voices, stories, and leadership."

The funding is assisting a push to establish the Project Space as a premier cultural and tourism destination in Hedland.