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Satisfy your artistic curiosity and celebrate originality at Margaret River Region Open Studios (27 April to 12 May).

More than 100 painters, sculptors, illustrators, jewellers, printmakers, glassblowers, ceramicists, photographers and furniture makers are participating in the sixth annual Open Studios, and 24 artists are throwing open their studio doors for the first time.

From Busselton to Augusta in Australia’s stunning south west, meet artists in their home towns and off the beaten track for a unique behind-the-scenes creative experience.

Margaret River Region Open Studios Chairman Jim Davies said the 16-day event ticked many boxes in providing art lovers with a memorable experience.

“This year’s artistic line-up includes many old (and young) favourites, plus a number of artists new to the event, so it’s perfect for both first time and regular visitors,” he said.

“There really is something for everyone, whether it be learning about creative intentions and techniques, sharing ideas, admiring art, exploring out-of-the-way back roads, or owning a piece of art created by an artist you have had the opportunity to meet.”

Local artists are the stars of the show and talent this year includes recognisable and respected names such as Leon Pericles, Rachel Coad, Rebecca Cool, Lauren Wilhelm, Ian Mutch, Christian Fletcher, John Streater and John Miller.

The work of some artists is available exclusively from their studios.

There are many personal and interactive experiences to be had in visiting artists across the region. Leon Pericles will give printing demonstrations and will be signing his new 50-year retrospective book. Interactive artist Britta Sorensen invites visitors to immerse themselves in colour and watch or join in her interactive experiential recycled textiles installation. Ceramicist Dariya Gratte will be demonstrating fine porcelain techniques. Attend a ‘learn how to paint’ workshop by Heidi Mullender, or enjoy painting demonstrations with many of the Open Studios artists.

Glass guru Gerry Reilly will be providing glassmaking experiences glassblowing and showing how to ‘blow your own bauble’. At Ian Mutch’s home studio, watch a film of his public artworks and flip through his artist sketchbooks. Ian Thwaites will give woodworking demonstrations and Nalda Hoskins will share how she makes her stunning glass beads and jewellery. Enjoy a chat and a chai from a mug handmade by ceramicist Sally Mills in her beautiful garden, or have a go on her pottery wheel.

Using the event’s handy maps, explore studios within artist’s homes, in country cottages, on winery properties, in peaceful bushland, on working farms with friendly barnyard animals, in a ’70s beach shack, at an ice-cream farm, a maze, in a tattoo studio, and in a homemade mudbrick studio ‘Swallow’s Welcome’ where artist Patricia Negus invites visitors to view her artwork, admire the gardens, bring a picnic and relax.

In keeping with the creativity of Margaret River Region Open Studios, this year’s event has a new visual design, which will feature on the cover of the event guide and website. The free large-format event guide includes new-look maps showing studio locations, cross-referenced with artist images and biographies.

Margaret River Region Open Studios is free to attend and bookings are not required.

To find out more visit www.mrropenstudios.com.au or follow the event on Facebook (mrropenstudios) or Instagram (@margaretriverregionopenstudios). Pick up a copy of the event guide at your local Jackson’s Drawing Supplies shop in Perth or the south west or local Visitor Centres and attractions.

The event is made possible thanks to support from the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries; Tourism Western Australia; City of Busselton; Shire of Augusta Margaret River; Your Margaret River Region; and is supported by supported by many local businesses including John Miller Designs; Jacksons Drawing Supplies; Leeuwin Estate; Yahava; Scott Print; Cape Mentelle; and Margaret River’s Secret Garden.