culture
Emerging talent voices and the next wave to watch
Perth's independent arts spaces are lifting up fresh writers, musicians and visual artists through targeted showcases that run through the rest of July.
How we reported this
Fourteen Perth-based creators under the age of 30 will present new work across literature, sound and installation at two Northbridge venues next week.
The timing aligns with increased City of Perth funding for early-career programs after last year's 18 percent rise in independent venue bookings. Local organisations report that post-pandemic audiences now seek shorter, lower-cost events that feature untested voices rather than established names.
Venues driving the showcases
The Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts on James Street will host an installation and spoken-word night on 19 July, while The Rosemount Hotel on Fitzgerald Street follows with a three-hour music and reading bill on 22 July. Both sites sit within walking distance of the Perth Cultural Centre and have run open-call programs for emerging artists since 2023. The Bakery on Beaufort Street has also confirmed a follow-up pop-up reading on 26 July for writers who miss the first two dates.
Entry prices start at $12 for the PICA event and $18 for the Rosemount bill, with all proceeds split between the artists and the venues' production costs. The City of Perth recorded 2,340 attendances at similar emerging-talent nights in the 2025 financial year, up from 1,980 the year before.
Next steps for audiences and artists
Program details and ticket links appear on the individual venue websites from today. Walk-up tickets remain available on the night provided capacity allows, and several of the featured artists will hold short Q&A sessions immediately after their sets. Those planning to attend can reach Northbridge via the free CAT bus from the central station or park at the Roe Street multi-storey for $3 after 6pm.