Alex Mickle & Nicole Ranson

Arts and  Entertainment Category

(Hall of Distinction 2025)

Alex Mickle and Nicole Ranson work as the artistic team behind Safehaven Studios, creating significant works of public art that push the boundaries of contemporary sculpture in Western Australia. Some notable sculptures are: ‘Wardandi Boodja’ in Bunbury, an iconic sculpture representing the history and place of the Noongar people and ‘Fusion’, paying homage to the pearling industry and Asian heritage in Broome.

Their Christian values and humanist ethos are evident in their artwork, particularly at John XXIII College where the striking entry sculpture ‘Becoming’ depicts the contributions of the Loretto Nuns and the Jesuits, and the amalgamation of two schools under the values of Pope John XXIII.

Nicole and Alex’s shared love of art sees them use their talents to unite people and tell stories that cross cultures, histories and life experiences. They have been able to do this in part because of the skills and Christian values learned in their formative education at Bunbury Catholic College, after having first met at St Joseph’s Primary School and graduating from the College together in 1987.