The Rob Anson Perpetual Award was instigated by his wife Maggie upon his death in 2023 to illuminate and reward artists living with Young Onset Dementia. Rob Anson was a successful architect running his own practice at the time of his diagnosis in 2018. His practice embodied the view
“good architecture can directly influence the quality of peoples lives”
To this end he was passionate about Affordable Housing projects and Public Access Projects including train and bus stations, schools, universities, cafes etc.
The Award depicts the gate at the original Currambine train station that Rob designed as an employee of Western Australian Railway Network.
It depicts people from all walks of life engaging in community.
Much like the fact that Young Onset Dementia can affect anyone from any walk of life and in the peak of their life and career. The original Station has been demolished but the gate was reused on the new Currambine train station.
It is imperative to recognise the importance of the Arts to enhance the lives of those living with this disease and to educate the public about Young Onset Dementia.
Margaret Anson
Currambine Train Station Gate designed by Robert Anson Architect
Currambine Train Station Gate designed by Robert Anson Architect
The 2024 inaugural ‘Rob Anson Perpetual Award’ is selected by the people at the annual YODyssey art exhibition.
The aim for this award is to perpetuate recognition of Robert Anson as the first exhibitor of YODyssey and to encourage other artists to create and display their work.
The award design is based on Rob Anson's architectural design of the gates at Currambine train station in Perth.
The gates close off the train station to the public at night for security.