September’s Margaret River Region Open Studios looks set to be Australia’s premier spring arts event.
A dazzling line-up of talented artists from multiple mediums will be showing off their finest creations throughout the beautiful Capes region.
From September 7, for two weeks, visitors can travel the length and breadth of the area visiting studios and galleries and getting to know some of WA’s most talented and respected artists.
This year 144 artists – including painters, potters, milliners, sculptors, illustrators, printmakers and jewllers – will be be showcasing their works.
From Busselton to Augusta they’ll be throwing open their doors, letting visitors into their creative space.
Some operate in hay sheds and barns, some in sophisticated studios; one works out of a train carriage.
“Mark your diaries, block out the beach house or book your favourite down south digs and tell your friends!” say the organisers.
In this issue of The Starfish, artist Lauren Wilhelm, who’s been part of Margaret River Region Open Studios since its inception, tells us what it means to her to be involved.
Below, some more of the talented folk who’ll be welcoming you into their working spaces at this year’s event:
Ian Dowling: Potter/Sculptor
“I will be working every open day on new abstract sculptural pieces.
These will be a progression from the clay forms I’ve been making over the last couple of years. The difference is that I will be making larger sculptures and they will be completely abstract.
I’ll be making the most of my very large kiln to fire forms that reflect progressive patterns in nature.
To enhance these, they are made using my local clays and other added materials.
To show examples of the surfaces and forms I’ve attached some earlier clay sculptural work that has a slightly functional connection.
Christian Fletcher: Photographer
Christian, a leading WA, landscape photographer says visitors to his Dunsborough gallery will be treated to works from a group of “talented and diverse professional artists will come together for an amazing collaborative exhibition.”
Each artist has chosen a different photograph from Christian Fletcher, where they interpret the photograph in their style and medium.
“The result is an awe-inspiring, incredible display of art in all its many and varied forms. It is a showcase of talent, beauty, and fascination, and a celebration of art.
Great things come from collaborating which further elevate art and the joy and power it holds.”
John Streater: Furniture Maker
John, of Yallingup Siding, promises visitors will be treated to” style, new designs and a gallery full of surprises!”
He adds, “We do more than craft furniture; we sculpt narratives, forge connections, and breathe life into spaces.”
We create pieces that transcend time, infusing each with elegance, heritage, and unmatched craftsmanship.
There is a viewing area from my Gallery into the workshop, there you can view me working on my latest creations.
Genoveva Figliolia: Silversmith
Genoveva, an Argentine silversmith, says “I will be making jewellery and sharing a home studio with my partner Gonzalo Marianne, a self-taught jeweller, craftsman and photographer.”
See you in the Margaret River Region for this year’s fabulous arts event, from September 7-22.
More information at: https://mrropenstudios.com.au
