By KATH GANNAWAY
ONE day is just not enough to discover the amazing wealth of artistic endeavour and talent in the hills.
That’s why, for the past 12 years, the Dandenong Ranges Open Studios has dedicated a whole weekend to the pursuit.
More than 36 local hills artists and art collectives are involved, working across a diverse range of mediums including ceramics, textiles, painting, illustration, performance, woodwork and street art.
If you think you’ve been there … seen it all before, be assured, the Dandenong Ranges’ artists are an ever-changing, eclectic lot, so there is always something new and exciting to discover as you meet the makers hidden in the hills.
Two new categories have been added to the program this year.
Emerging Artists highlights the work of artists who are within the first five years of their practice … so some fresh and exciting offerings there!
Then there is a sprinkling of ‘oddballs’; those who push the boundaries of what you would usually expect from one of the most anticipated events for the region’s cultural calendar.
The heart of Open Studios is the opportunity to meet the makers in their natural environment.
Almost 5000 art-minded visitors and tourists from all over Victoria come to the Hills each autumn to meet the artists in their working studios.
“It is in these curious and inspirational environments that the artists’ creative practice truly comes to life,” said event co-ordinator Amy Middleton.
“It’s a unique opportunity to have a peek inside artists’ creative practices and visit hidden studios nestled among the stunning forest of the Dandenong Ranges.”
In addition, all artists will be exhibiting new work in an accompanying exhibition at Burrinja in Upwey from 28 March to 3 May.
An easy-to-use Open Studios guidebook with touring map is available at Burrinja (so, a great place to start your excursion) and at other popular tourist and arts locations throughout the Hills.
If you could pick just one weekend to discover and celebrate the region’s rich and vibrant artistic heritage, it has to be 18 and 19 April.
For further information visit: www.openstudios.org.au.
