- Open Art Studios made its debut in Upper Harbour, featuring 16 artists across seven studios and drawing strong community interest, with over 80 visitors at one site on opening day alone.
- The event, funded by the Upper Harbour Local Board, offered valuable exposure for local artists, boosted art sales, and fostered connections between artists and the public.
Many visitors turned out to celebrate artistic talent and community connection as artists opened their doors for the inaugural Open Art Studios event in Upper Harbour.
Held in May, the weekend event featured seven studios and 16 artists, offering a rare opportunity for the public to explore the region’s vibrant creative spaces.
The inaugural event, funded by the Upper Harbour Local Board, was a great opportunity to showcase local creativity and bring the community together.
Valuable exposure for local artists
It offered valuable exposure for local artists, helping to raise the profile of Upper Harbour, attract visitors to the area, and foster a strong sense of connection and pride within the arts community.
Acclaimed local artist Barry Ross Smith temporarily transformed Greenhithe’s Old School Hall into a gallery space, drawing more than 80 visitors on the first day with his live painting demonstrations.
Visitors were treated to a diverse array of art forms, including ceramics, sculpture, fine art paintings, pastel and charcoal drawings. They enjoyed meeting the artists, asking questions, and gaining insights into their work and creative environments.
Award-winning pastel artists Julie and Michael Freeman welcomed nearly 100 visitors to their home gallery and studio and recorded sales of over $6,500 during the weekend. On average, participating studios reported artwork sales exceeding $2,000.
Artists in action
Lisa Cross was one of many who appreciated the chance to see artists in action during the art studio event but for her, the experience was extra special.
The surprise outing was organised for her on Mother’s Day, and it turned into an unforgettable celebration of artistic exploration and personal connection.
“It was incredible to see the creative spaces, talk directly to the artists, and hear about their techniques. The artists were all incredibly generous in sharing their knowledge.
“It was a fabulous day and so amazing to meet the artists in person. Truly an unforgettable experience.”
The inspiration didn’t stop there as Lisa has taken a pottery course with her daughter at one of the studios featured in the event.
Showcased a rich mix of talent
The Open Art Studios showcased a rich mix of talent including a children’s art studio and a ceramic studio in Rosedale, four painters and sculptors based in Albany and Unsworth Heights, and a collective of three ceramic artists working from a shared studio in Albany.
Organising the event for the first time in Upper Harbour, Renée Tanner was thrilled by the response from artists and the public.
“The exceptional turnout highlights a strong local interest in arts events and a wonderful level of community support,” Tanner says.
“Local artists are keen for future events, with many already inquiring about upcoming dates. This event has the potential to grow into a highly anticipated and widely recognised occasion, offering significant benefits for both artists and the community.”
With strong community support and backing from the Upper Harbour Local Board, Open Art Studios has laid the groundwork for what promises to become a much-anticipated annual event highlighting local creativity and connection.
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