Insights into Geelong’s art scene

LOCAL artists are offering members of the public the chance to delve behind the scenes as a part of Geelong Design Week.

Starting this month, a free studio tour trail will take place across the region, inviting the community to take inspiration from the creative spaces built by emerging local artists.

Over three weekends, starting on March 20, participants will be treated to the behind-the-scenes work of a variety of artists who use their space to create a range of art including paintings, glass art, sculptures, ceramics and furniture design.

Bellarine Arts Trail coordinator Kaz Shirley said she was thrilled to see local artists given the opportunity to participate in Geelong Design Week.

The Open Studio event will form one of the 60 events to take over the region during Geelong Design Week occurring across March 18-28.

The event will celebrate Geelong’s global recognition as Australia’s only UNESCO Creative City of Design.

“We are pleased to be able to offer this opportunity to our local artists,” Ms Shirley said.

“We have venues open across the Bellarine Peninsula, and participating artists range from painters, ceramicists, sculptors, glass work, and galleries including The Hive in Ocean Grove and Queenscliff Gallery (pictured below).

“We’re also welcoming plenty of newcomers such as Mustlove studio in Ocean Grove, the creation of two sisters who have joined forces to bring their creative ventures together into one studio.”

Geelong mayor Stephanie Asher said the event will showcase the variety of artistic talents across the region.

“We are blessed to have many gifted artists in Greater Geelong, and to see them in their creative environments will be a really special experience,” Cr Asher said.

“The Open Studios Trail is a free event so it’s a great opportunity to get involved in Geelong Design Week and celebrate the clever and creative artists and designers in our region.”

The community is encouraged to download the Geelong Arts and Culture Trails App to help guide them along the tour.

The Open Studios weekends will take place across March 20-21, 27-28 and April 10-11.