Dark arts descend on historic Geelong Gaol

GEELONG’S 170-year-old bluestone gaol will take on a haunting new life next week, as it hosts its first Dark Arts Expo.

The one-day event, to be held on October 11, will feature more than 25 local artisans and crafters whose work embraces the macabre, gothic and wonderfully strange.

Stalls will showcase everything from gothic jewellery and eerie artworks to handcrafted curiosities and unusual homewares, with visitors able to meet the makers behind them.

Geelong Gaol National Crime & Justice Museum director Rob Wynne said the expo is a celebration of creativity that “doesn’t fit the mainstream”.

“This event supports small businesses and gives artisans working in alternative styles a platform to connect with new audiences,” he said.

“The event showcases the very best in alternative art, design and craftsmanship — from haunting artworks and gothic-inspired jewellery to eerie decor and collectible curiosities — all under one historic roof.

“The expo will also give visitors a chance to explore one of Victoria’s most significant heritage buildings, with its preserved cells and the Crime & Justice Museum adding extra layers to the experience.”

The expo has been curated in partnership with well-known local “creepy creators” Heather Baldwin of Good Golly Dead Dollies, who will have her “horror dolls” on display, and Andrea Beattie, the founder of Hallozween.

Ms Baldwin has been transforming pre-loved dolls into horror art since 2015. Each of her creations is hand painted and takes between four and five days to make.

“It’s all about the eyes,” she said. “No two dolls are the same. They’re all one-of-a-kind and that’s what people like when they buy them.”

While the artform is popular in America, Ms Baldwin is one of only a handful of horror doll creators in Australia.

She said she was proud of the line-up of dark-themed makers and products that will be on offer during the expo.

“Once all the vendors are there with their unique products, it’s going to look magical,” Ms Baldwin said.

“It’s something Geelong’s never seen before; I think they’re going to be in for a treat.

“It’s going to be like something out of Harry Potter.”

Visitors can also enjoy food from local trucks, take photos with professional cosplayers, and explore the gaol’s eerie history on a self-guided tour.

The Geelong Gaol Dark Arts Expo will run from 10am to 6pm on Saturday, October 11.

Entry is $25 for adults, with free admission for children under 17 when accompanied by a paying adult.

For tickets and more information, visit shorturl.at/ucTRg