Artist invite to studio space

AN artist located at one of the region’s southern-most towns is opening the doors on her gallery space and inviting attendees to browse her works at her home studio.

On the last Saturday of every month, visual artist Jillian Rough is opening up her working environment, situated on her 150-hectare Stonehaven property, to the public.

Having launched the initiative late last month, she said she was inspired by GP Arts’ annual arts trail of which she’s been involved with the last three.

“The arts trail is amazing for artists,” she said. “I’ve had three sales where people have come back afterwards. It’s a great way of getting them into the studio to see what you have.

“I had a woman turn up at 10.30am on the first Saturday who’d caught my work on the arts trail and said she couldn’t get it out of her mind.

“There are a number of artists that have their own studios but we’re fairly isolated so once a year with the arts trail is not enough if you can’t get yourself out there.

“This is a way to promote myself.”

Rough’s first solo studio open day featured 20 of her mixed media realist works.

She developed the studio space during lockdowns, converting her garage to include a large wood table in the centre that she upcycled herself.

Rough has not exhibited in a professional gallery for more than 15 years.

She said the home-based approach is significantly more viable for both creatives and customers.

“I’ve exhibited in galleries all over Victoria,” she said. “Some of the galleries charge a 50 per cent commission which is ridiculous. You can’t keep making art if you’re not turning it over.

“This model would definitely benefit artists in the Shire. Because there’s no commission, I’ve been able to sell my artwork a lot cheaper than what I used to so people can afford to buy them.”

Appointments can also be made to visit the studio space outside of the monthly open days by contacting Rough on 0455 288 964.

Located at 1131 on the Hamilton Highway, the next open day will run from 11am to 4pm on Saturday 26 August.