Conference Paper: The role of creative practice in mine closure and transition
About project:
This paper, presented at the ACG Mine Closure Conference 2026, reviewing the work of the Open Cut Collective and we as creatives practitioners are engaging directly with the Latrobe Valley’s post-mining transition. The Collective has worked collaboratively with mine operators, government agencies, research institutions and community advocacy groups across different types of media (including visual art, podcasts, films, events, educational experiences and more) to meaningfully engage communities in understanding and participating in their post-mining futures during key phases of decision-making. The paper provides an overview of key projects led by Open Cut Collective in the Latrobe Valley and argues for a greater role for creative practices and creative economies in contexts of mine closure, rehabilitation and post-mining community transitions occurring in Australia and beyond.
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