Image credit: Jessee Lee Johns, The Ronald Courtney Institute, The Commonwealth of New Bayswater, 2025, Karribank Retreat, Porongorup. Photography by Nic Duncan.
THE RONALD
COURTNEY
INSTITUTE
A new site-specific installation by Jessee Lee Johns
In recent years, Jessee Lee Johns has developed a series of artworks based on his micro-nation, The Commonwealth of New Bayswater, featuring businesses and government entities such as embassies, a beach resort, and a state religion. These large-scale installations, built from largely recycled materials, act as independent spaces within their host locations, requiring visitors to obtain a visa for entry.
In partnership with ART ON THE MOVE, Johns will develop a new project, The Ronald Courtney Institute, set in the Porongurups. The Institute will offer a range of courses and cultural activities, focusing on the history and cultural practices of New Bayswater and featuring live performances. It will also serve as a community hub, inviting residents to participate and host events. Building materials will be sourced locally through community exchange, with the final design expected to evolve as the project commences.
The Ronald Courtney Institute is located at Karribank, 1983 Porongurup Rd, Porongorup.
VISITORS WELCOME!
The Institute is open to the public, Friday to Sunday, 10am — 5pm until May 11. Visitors are welcome to come chat, have a look around and maybe a cup of tea.
You can also:
or attempt to contact the Assistant to the Secretary to the Ambassador of the Commonwealth of New Bayswater, Jessee Lee Johns, at 0474 371 248 during standard business hours* of Fri — Sun, 10am — 5pm.
*Please note New Bayswater standard hours are not very standard or consistent.
FREE COMMUNITY EVENTS AT THE INSTITUTE
No bookings necessary!
Grand Opening
Saturday April 19, 10.30am — 3pm
Welcome to Country – Mark Colbung
Guided tour of the Institute
Music – Echo Omen and Mei Saraswati
Sunday April 27 (from 1PM)
Chart-topper Concert Series: Rok Riley
Saturday May 3 (from 6PM)
Storytelling with Penny and Bobby
Sunday May 11 (from 3PM)
Farewell to the Institute: Live Music, BBQ, Pallets
3PM – Pallet Deconstruction Competition
6PM – Myriad Sun
This project is made possible through the Regional Exhibition Touring Boost with funding managed by the WA Government and delivered by ART ON THE MOVE.
