Susan Bowers
I am a self-taught textile artist creating sculptures in clay, wool and vintage and antique textiles. I have exhibited in Australia and Canada and my sculptures have found homes throughout Australia, Canada, the UK, USA, and Japan. My art practice has spanned over 20 years during which time I have also explored painting and felting.
I am Canadian but have called Australia home for the better part of the past 30 years and WA’s south west since 2021, currently living and working in Boyup Brook.
I was honored to be asked to participate as a judge in the AITP 2026.
Ronelle de Klerk
I am a hobby artist. My journey has taken me from South Africa, where I was born, to Australia, which is now my home. I have been making pictures since I could hold a pencil. After high school I studied a Bachelor of Science degree and have been working as an Optometrist since. In between work and raising a family I have kept my interest in making art alive, falling in love with oil painting along the way. Mostly self-taught, I continued my explorations until Albany Summer School expanded my knowledge of oils and introduced pastels. Keen to keep learning, I obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Fine Arts at Curtin University. My studies have introduced me to new ideas about art, art history, art movements, art media and various techniques, including sculpture.
Key to my art practice is the desire to reduce waste. I recycle and up-cycle as much as possible and source my supports for painting and photo transfer from second-hand shops and found materials. This way I give discarded items a new purpose and meaning. We are privileged to inhabit a beautiful world. As nature shapes our history, we respectfully explore, celebrate and nurture this relationship.
Dionne Hooyberg
Dionne Hooyberg is a curator and artist based in Goomburrup, Bunbury.
She works as Registrar and Assistant Curator at Bunbury Regional Art Gallery, focusing on regional and emerging arts practices.
As an artist, she has exhibited with PICA, Walyalup Fremantle Arts Centre, Cool Change Contemporary, and regional art galleries throughout Western Australia.