The arts enable both individuals and groups to explore, shape and represent ideas, emotions and experiences which help define identity. They enhance our understanding of the physical, emotional, intellectual, aesthetic, social and spiritual dimensions of human experience and contribute to the transmission of values and ideas from generation to generation.

Western Australia is extremely fortunate to have some of the most distinguished and celebrated artists in Australia, many of international stature. As well as enriching the lives of others, their work brings kudos and recognition to our State. While our State is well known for its unique landscape and natural resources of gold and diamonds, Western Australian artists and their work are also a unique resource of which we can all be proud. Their work is testimony to Western Australia's inspirational environment.

Some years ago, I discussed with a few colleagues the idea of honouring some of our most distinguished and accomplished Western Australian artists. During the development of the State Living Treasures Awards names of two artists were frequently mentioned as examples of people who should be recognised as State Living Treasures. These were Joan Campbell and Rover Thomas. Unfortunately we were unable to bring the Awards to fruition and recognise them before their deaths but it was considered that we should nonetheless pay tribute to them for inspiring the Awards.

On 21 October 1998, I announced the first Western Australian State Living Treasures Awards. The Awards were given to artists whose lifetime work has enhanced the artistic and cultural life of Western Australia, providing inspiration for other artists and enriching the community. It is appropriate that the arts are recognised alongside other activities and our artists are acknowledged and celebrated by the people of Western Australia.

My thanks go to the panel members who selected the final recipients. With the panel's wealth of expertise and achievement I trust that the artists chosen for the State Living Treasures Awards are of the highest calibre. I would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate the eleven outstanding artists honoured on this occasion. As you will discover, their remarkable talent and dedication is an inspiration to us all. So many people have been uplifted and directly affected through these artists' work and through their roles as teachers and mentors. We are fortunate to claim these remarkable artists as Western Australian residents and have the benefit of their continuing contributions. By publicly acknowledging their achievements and recording them for the future we will keep our cultural history alive. 

This commemorative book is beautifully designed and illustrated with award-winning photographs by Robert Garvey. It provides a window into the lives and achievements of the State's most distinguished artists for future generations of Australians. The determination and success of the artists honoured in this book helps define our sense of identity and adds to the rich texture and fabric of what it means to live and work in Western Australia. From vastly different backgrounds and disciplines, each has enriched our State's cultural life. It is with great pleasure that I present this book as a fitting tribute and celebration of the enormous contribution these senior artists have made to the arts in Western Australia.

The Hon. Peter Foss QC MLC 

ATTORNEY GENERAL

MINISTER FOR JUSTICE; THE ARTS