Creatives flock to North Bellarine

Susan Jefford and Bellarine Peninsula Arts Committee’s Renae Chapman preparing for the North Bellarine Arts Trail. (Ivan Kemp) 466632_02

Artists across the Bellarine are getting out their brushes and art materials as the North Bellarine Arts Trail returns for another year.

Twenty-nine venues will open their doors to the public for people to explore different artworks and creative pieces during Bellarine Peninsula Arts Committee’s free event on March 29 and 30.

Committee member and artist Karen Coulson said the trail was a “real community event” with many venues open across the region from Wallington to St Leonards.

Ms Coulson said she will also showcase her work with Bayview Artists at venue 22 during the trail including pieces made with resin, acrylic paints and mixed media.

“We generally work on our own, so it’s good to be able to see what others are doing and creating,” she said.

“There’s a lot of opportunities for people to get information, so they can come in, have a wander and talk to the artists.

“We also have music this year, so we’re in partnership with the National Celtic Festival, and we’ll have roving musicians at six of our venues.

“I love being around like-minded people for the weekend and it provides an opportunity for artists to showcase their work who may not have had that opportunity.”

The arts trail was launched in 2016 and focused initially on Barwon Heads, Ocean Grove, Point Lonsdale and Queenscliff before it was expanded into the northern areas in 2019.

The North Bellarine Arts Trail is a not-for-profit event celebrating its sixth year. Visit bellarinepeninsulaarts.com for more information.

Jena Carr