Artists to discover along the trail

CALLING all art lovers and collectors! It’s time to get out for a cultured weekend in the country.

The Golden Plains Arts Trail returns this weekend, with about 50 local artists showcasing their work and practices at 18 venues in the north and south of the shire.

GP Arts Inc members are opening the doors to their studios, and putting on displays in community centres, aiming to expand their networks in the creative community and connect with potential collectors.

It’s also a chance for members of the public to see the way professional and hobby artists work.

Printmaker Anne Langdon will be hosting four other local artists at her Birchgrove Studio in Smythesdale, and has organised some performing artists to add to the atmosphere.

“We’re really looking forward to the Arts Trail,” she said. “We’ve had lots of interest.

“I’ve got music on the Saturday afternoon from the Ukulele Minstrels and the Monday Trippers, who are a Beatles and 60s-style band.”

Closer to the centre of the Golden Plains Shire, painter Jon Lam is exhibiting his work at the Dereel Soldiers Memorial Hall.

“It’s all about camaraderie,” he said. “All the members are so friendly and helpful to one another. We bounce off each other and input ideas.

“This sort of exposure with the Arts Trail is great so we can try to get referrals.”

The event will run 10am to 5pm this Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 April, and entry is free.

Artists are also presenting their work and opening their studios in Bannockburn, Stonehaven, Teesdale, Russells Bridge, Meredith, Durham Lead, Cambrian Hill, Ross Creek, Napoleons, Haddon and Scarsdale.

Visit gpsartsinc.com.au for more information on artists, venues, and a brochure.