Elianie Watson 2025
Musician, Singer, Songwriter | Awarded $10,000
Lifelong Shire of Mundaring resident and emerging musician Elianie Watson, from Mt Helena, is preparing to take the next step in her artistic journey with the creation of her second EP, supported by a scholarship awarded by the Robert Juniper Award for the Arts.
Elianie, who has lived in the Boorloo/Perth Hills all her life and attended Helena College for 12 years, has long been immersed in the region’s close-knit community and natural beauty. Having just completed Year 12 through Home Education, she has spent the past few years honing her craft under the mentorship of previous grant recipient Annika Moses, studying voice, piano, and songwriting.
Over the past three years, Elianie has independently released 11 original songs across all streaming platforms, including her debut five-track EP, call my own (October 2024). She regularly performs across Perth, taking headline shows, festival slots such as Hyper Fest, and supporting international and interstate acts like Thelma Plum and Drax Project.
“Music and creativity have always been at the core of everything I do,” Elianie says. “I’m inspired by the beautiful nature around me, the supportive community, and other artists in the WA and broader Australian music scene. My goal is to continue making and sharing music that expresses myself, tells stories, and deepens my creativity.”
With the grant, Elianie plans to produce her sophomore EP, releasing two lead singles in April and July 2026, ahead of a full five-track release in September 2026. Funding will support studio sessions with her producer, collaborations with other songwriters and musicians, as well as the creation of visual materials, including music videos, photoshoots, and EP artwork. The project will culminate in a live EP launch, bringing her music directly to fans and celebrating the new work.
“This project will give me invaluable experience in co-writing, collaborating with local creatives, and performing live,” Elianie explains. “It’s a step towards building a sustainable career in music and reaching a larger audience, while continuing to contribute to the vibrant arts scene here in the Perth Hills.”
Elianie’s journey highlights the importance of nurturing young talent in local communities, and the positive impact that grants such as the Robert Juniper Award for the Arts, and mentorship can have on emerging artists. Her second EP promises to further establish her as a rising voice in the Australian music landscape.