If you think WA is Dullsville, then this month is a wake up call – it’s time to find the house keys (try looking for the final episode of the X-Files in the TV guide – yep, there they are….still marking the page) and let yourself outside. Whoa! Welcome to Artopia – a festival dedicated to the State’s living artists. With artists from all over the State participating in projects, ranging from Open Studios to Walkpath projects to collaborative works with high profile business to giant community drawing projects. There’s enough creative juices flowing that we’re not going to have to rely on global warming to sink Mandurah. The festival runs until the 14th of October. You can pick up Artopia programmes just about everywhere, or see artopia.net.au.

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And that’s not all folks…

If you’re looking for a mind-bending night out that doesn’t involve illicit substances, stroll along to Rechibites to see the Prickly Pear Ensemble presenting Lost Is My Quiet, a tense psychological thriller written and directed by John Aitken.  Based in a south-east Asian city, it’s the story of a writer, Jody, who lives with Libbie, an ex-hooker who feeds Jody stories from her lurid past. Simon, an ex-lover of Jody’s, comes to visit, claiming he is a born-again Christian. Simon also brings with him his döppelganger – an exact copy of himself. The only problem is that the döppelganger is a born-again serial-killer… Now showing at the Rechabites Hall until the 6th October, tix from $10.  www.bocsticketing.com.au 

Tired of staring at that blank wall? Then head out to peruse the latest talent from the Northern Territory in the exhibition showing at Randell Lane Fine Art Gallery in Mt Lawley. The paintings in Randell Lane’s last exhibition, Watarru Tjukurpa, had a raw power that was mesmerising – at night when the gallery was lit, the canvases glowed and flickered on the walls like flames. Their current exhibition is Maruku Arts.  Specialising in high quality, remote community-based Aboriginal Art, Maruku is a craft company owned and controlled by Aboriginal people. With consistently high quality work as well as their commitment to ethical representation of community artists, it is irrelevant whether you invest in or simply appreciate fine art – Randall Lane is one gallery definitely worth keeping a close eye on. Maruku Arts is showing until the 13th October. www.randellart.com

Are you in a reflective mood? If so, then the exhibition on at the John Curtin Gallery may uplift you. ‘Impermanence’ is part of the dynamic Biennale of Electronic Arts Perth (BEAP) 2007 and features a series of groundbreaking, interactive works by artists who address the idea of reflection and contemplation through art and technology. Including works by artists from Australia, America, Taiwan, Austria and France, this exhibition runs until 7th December, and entry is free. One minor irritation with John Curtin is that unless you’re on campus or don’t have a day job, their frequently excellent, fascinating exhibitions are hampered by limited opening hours. Check details for viewing times. www.johncurtingallery.curtin.edu.au 

If you’re feeling patriotic, then head to Gallery East to support local artist Paul Uhlmann.  Winner of the inaugural City of Perth National Art Prize in 2005, Paul Uhlmann is now showing his fourth solo exhibition, ‘Without Words’. The contemplative paintings are a mixture of landscapes, atmospheres and everyday moments that speak of a volatile and changeable world; a world of potential and possibilities, rich in multiple histories and meanings. On show now until the 21st October. www.galleryeast.com.au

Go and see the range of winners and finalists for the Fremantle Print Award 2007 at the Fremantle Arts Centre. This exhibition is Australia’s leading award and exhibition for prints and artist’s books in any print medium. The works by the winner of the $10 000 prize, Tony Ameneiro, and winner of the $3000 prize, Farrell and Parkin are on display, along with a selection of the best entries. Entry is free, and the exhibition is showing now until the 22nd October. www.fac.org.au 

Nothing is better for the self esteem than pulling off the perfect date. But what to do? Gee, wouldn’t it be great if we had a dynamic cabaret scene like Eastern states cities? Well we do and it’s probably one of the better kept secrets around. Downstairs at the Maj’s Cabaret Soiree series is a collection of tasty aural treats in an intimate and cosy cubbyhole tucked under His Majesty’s. If you’re looking to impress the pants off a date, or spoil someone who really, really needs it, like say for example, you, this is your gig. The wine is quaffable, the nibbles are delicious and the shows are fabulous. Just don’t be surprised when you get a spanking for having missed the start of the season. www.hismajestystheatre.com.au

Compiled by Tash Coen and Zoe Carter