Goldfields artists connect for fest

A FESTIVAL aimed at showcasing the fertile creativity between the Ballarat, Hepburn and Mount Alexander regions will soon return.

The second iteration of Radical Fields, newly lettered and condensed from its six-month Radical Fieldz debut, will take place later this month in a paddock at Glenlyon as a single-day offering.

Creative director Ryan F. Kennedy said the free, all-ages event is about bringing together the regions’ various artists, industry, culture and community.

“Our one-day arts festival brings together regional artists and community groups to celebrate creativity in a beautiful, open-air environment,” he said.

“It’s an experience that invites you to explore, create and connect with others.”

Ballarat creatives Delia Allen and Tas Wansbrough, as well as Radius Art co-director and curator Kim Percy, will feature at the event.

As well as the annual harvest event, the Radical Fields non-profit’s activities have also entailed market appearances and public art installations at places like the Glenlyon Shire Hall. Photo: SUPPLIED

Hepburn Shire artists Lixa Brandt and Gav Barbey; Castlemaine Clay’s Minaal Lawn and Paul E. Mason, as well as Martin John Lee and Hayley West from Castlemaine; and Rhae Kendrigan from Mildura Shire are also involved.

As well as individuals and local businesses, the return is being supported by groups like Regional Arts Victoria, Regional Arts Australia, Pride Foundation Australia, Bendigo Bank, and the Australian Cultural Fund.

Regional Arts Australia chief executive Jo Porter said the event is an opportunity for regional artists to strengthen their collaborative spirit.

“Artists are very respectful collaborators. It’s not like people coming in and saying, ‘we have better ideas’,” she said.

“They are more likely to ask, ‘Can we bring our ideas?’ That is actually a really important aspect of moving to a regional community. That sense of generosity and respect.”

The event will include returning activities including a meditative walk with Castlemaine Zen as well as a tractor pull display by Daylesford CrossFit athletes.

A performance by Kyneton Dog Obedience Club will also feature, while Lawn will host a clay activation.

A raffle will also take place, with proceeds to go to the Glenlyon Fire Brigade.

Radical Fieldz was previously delivered as a monthly event to coincide with the Glenlyon Village Market and ran from September 2023 before culminating with a harvest festival in March 2024.

The second annual Radical Fields harvest festival will take place from 10am to 5pm on Saturday 22 March at Lyonbank Farm, 259 Back Glenlyon Road.