Thirteen artists in the Lower Blue Mountains will open their studios for an Arts Trail on August 20-21 between 10am-4pm.
The Blue Mountains Arts Trail was started by the Blue Mountains Artists Network to give the public the opportunity to meet with artists and see their works up close.
“It is also an opportunity for artists to explain and show the work they have put so much of their hearts and souls into making,” said spokeswoman Trish Smart.
“The studios are the hub where the creative process takes place. You can ask the artists about the work involved in the creation of their pieces. It is a whole different experience than visiting a gallery because the surroundings in the studio have the imprint of the artworks created.
“While artworks are open to interpretation, in most cases there is a concept or feeling required to produce the work. A gallery cannot convey these underlying creative processes but by talking directly with the artists you can find out what the work is about,” she said.
“Many artists are open to doing commissioned works which means if you like their style you may be able to have an artwork made to suit your own creative ideas, a unique expression of your own, working collaboratively to produce a work of art. Alternatively they may offer workshops or regular classes where you can learn the techniques required to make art works of your own.
Ms Smart said most artists would not change their lives because creating art is part of who they are but the reality is that over 90 per cent of them need a second job to survive.
“Enjoy the day and support the arts by participating and appreciating the creative people of the Blue Mountains. It will be a pleasure to drive through the beautiful world heritage surroundings, the place that has inspired many of the artists,” she said.
A free shuttle bus is being provided by TCP Day tours and Fantastic Aussie Tours to take people to the studios, with pick-ups from Blaxland and Faulconbridge Railway Railway Stations from 10am. The minibuses aim to be at each studio every half hour.
For full event details and information about each artist and studio, visit www.artstrail.org.au/arts-trail.php?trail=9.
