Pub’s art to put a spring in your step

WAUBRA’S newly renovated The Springs Hotel has become a destination for not only food and wine, but art.

A summer exhibition in the pub’s main dining room features nine artworks by painter Joan Blond, curated by The Interiors Assembly’s Kelly Ferraro.

“I approached the new publicans Craig and Nadia Gavin a while ago, and they were so happy to run with our idea,” Ms Ferraro said.

“The newly refurbished main dining room we felt was the best location, being separate from the main bar area and it’s a more formal space.

“Diners can enjoy a meal and wine, whilst admiring the beautiful artworks bursting with colour.”

Ms Ferraro said Blond has been inspired by summer in Australia while creating the paintings, which are on display until February and for sale.

“Her signature abstract painting style is loved by many, and we are so happy to have a few of her different styles as part of this release,” Ms Ferraro said.

“We have some bright abstracts, modern botanicals, as well as her signature abstract landscapes.

“They are all mixed media artworks created with acrylic paint, some feature gold and silver leaf embellishments, and some also have oil details.”

Blond is Phillip Island based, and Ms Ferraro said she is one of the most popular artists at The Interiors Assembly, with her work in homes and commercial spaces across the world.

With her interior design hat on, Ms Ferraro has also been a key part of refreshing The Springs Hotel overall.

“It was important to retain as much of the old pub feel and give it a modern update. We were responsible for creating the overall aesthetic of the finished hotel renovation, and we are so happy with the result,” she said.

“From the beginning, keeping the renovation as local as possible was really important to all owners. It was all hands-on deck at times, with local builders, trades and suppliers being used wherever we could.”

The main bar has had a major refurbishment with an internal wall demolished, making the room larger.

“It is now a huge area with high ceilings, two beautiful original open fireplaces, stunning new pendant lighting, and the original ceiling roses were retained,” Ms Ferraro said.

“The main bar has been completely rebuilt. Floors have been replaced in sections and keeping the original timber bar top profile was a really important aspect.

“A new replica top was created in timber as a nod to the old bar. The original brickwork above the bar has been retained, as has the original serving window from the bar to the dining room.”

There is now a beer garden, and the kitchen and the restrooms have had a full re-fit.