Trail pioneer returns to her art

THE Bellarine Arts Trail is now a cornerstone of the region’s cultural calendar, delighting art lovers almost every year since 2016.

This is thanks initially to the idea, passion and organisational skills of Kaz Shirley.

As a member of the Barwon Heads Arts Council, Shirley not only believed in the idea, she instigated it and continued to drive the project in subsequent years.

Now standing on its own two feet as an annual fixture on Cup weekend, Shirley has gradually handed over the reins, and the new volunteer working group have taken over brilliantly. This has allowed Shirley to return to her first love: painting.

Back in her Ocean Grove studio, Shirley is embracing this creative chapter with renewed enthusiasm. Known for her bold mark-making, vibrant colour palettes and meticulous attention to detail, Shirley works exclusively with quality materials to create pieces that radiate joy and precision.

As a result, Shirley completed many of her paintings for ‘Dreaming in Colour’, her solo exhibition running through January at The Hive Gallery, well ahead of schedule and has even excitedly had a number of pre-sales coming in.

“I’m proud of the trail and all the effort that went into it, but there was never enough time for my own art practice,” Shirley said.

“This exhibition is a celebration of returning to what I love and letting life’s moments play out on canvas with joy.”

Running from January 9 to February 1, the community is invited to support the artist that has assisted many other creatives in the community, by joining her at the opening on Saturday, January 10 at 2pm to celebrate a colourful life. The exhibition will be held at 41 Smithton Grove, Ocean Grove.

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