Artist-in-Residence at Broome Bird Observatory
At Broome Bird Observatory, birds are our focus — but creativity is one of the most powerful ways to connect people to nature.
Our Artist-in-Residence (AIR) Program invites an artist, illustrator, writer or creative practitioner to live and work at the Observatory for a dedicated period, sharing their skills through workshops, talks, open studio sessions and informal engagement with visitors.
Set against the extraordinary backdrop of Roebuck Bay, a Ramsar-listed wetland of international importance, the AIR program creates space for people to slow down, observe closely, and deepen their understanding of shorebirds, coastal habitats and conservation through creative practice.
The BBO Artist-in-Residence program is built around three core ideas:
Observation – Art encourages people to look more closely.
Connection – Creativity deepens our relationship with birds and place.
Education – Learning happens when we engage both head and hand.
Each residency blends:
Hands-on workshops for locals and visitors
Open studio time
Public talks or community events
Artwork inspired by the landscape and birdlife of Roebuck Bay
The program is offered in-kind, with BBO providing accommodation and studio space, while the resident artist contributes teaching and creative engagement for the community.
Artist in Residence
2025
Sandy McKendrick
In 2025, we welcomed Sandy McKendrick, a creative practitioner known for her collaborative, nature-inspired work.
During her residency, Sandy transformed the Mudlab into a lively studio space called the Sandpiper Studio, running hands-on workshops using natural and found materials. Her sessions encouraged participants to explore texture, colour and storytelling inspired by the tidal flats and shorebirds of Roebuck Bay.
Sandy’s residency created wonderful energy across Broome — drawing locals, visitors and families into creative conversations about birds, wetlands and conservation. It laid a strong foundation for the ongoing Artist-in-Residence program at BBO.
BBO’s 2026 Artist in Residence
Peter Marsack
We are delighted to welcome Peter Marsack as our 2026 Artist in Residence
10 June – 8 July 2026
Peter is one of Australia’s most respected natural history artists and bird illustrators. He was one of the three principal artists behind the award-winning CSIRO Australian Bird Guide and served as a senior illustrator for the multi-volume Handbook of Australian, New Zealand and Antarctic Birds (HANZAB).
With a background in zoology and decades of experience teaching bird illustration and field sketching, Peter brings an extraordinary blend of science, observation and artistic skill.
During his four-week residency at BBO, Peter will offer:
Beginner-friendly field sketching sessions
One- and two-day bird illustration (watercolour) workshops
Open studio sessions for visitors
A local community talk
These workshops are designed to help participants slow down, observe carefully, and learn to draw birds where the birds are — in one of Australia’s most remarkable wetland landscapes.
Workshop details and bookings will be released soon.