The Southwest landscape has always attracted artists whose creative minds are fed by the dramatic coastline, the unique light and the changing weather. The region is home to a vibrant arts scene and Margaret River is home to some of WA’s leading galleries, displaying stunning visual art, sculpture and locally made furniture. Here are a few to choose from this Easter long weekend or check out all galleries online:
Christian Fletcher Gallery, Dunsborough
Exhibition of recent work
Multi-award-winning Christian Fletcher is one of Western Australia’s most renowned landscape photographers, capturing the beauty of the South West and beyond. Christian believes all great landscape images have ‘perfect light’ at their core, and it is this light that he is most respected for. In addition to the gallery, there is a great range of gift items: scarves, books, cards etc to choose from. The gallery an institution in Dunsborough and open 7 days (except Good Friday).
(Featured image above: Christian Fletcher, Smiths Beach Yallingup) (Image: Christian Fletcher, Wheat Belt Western Australia)
Holmes à Court Gallery at Vasse Felix, Cowaramup
Until Jun 3, Removing the Traces
Showcasing works from the Holmes à Court private collection, Removing the Traces features significant abstract works representing the essence of land, forest and water in the south-west landscapes. (Image: Monique Tippett, Convergence, 2013, jarrah, synthetic polymer, gold leaf & lacquers on board, 120 x 240 cm)
Margaret River Gallery, Margaret River town
Until Apr 4, Lumineux
The Lumineux exhibition has extended to April 4, showcasing the works of three local artists on display: abstract paintings by Myra Mitchell, intricate glassware by Gerry Reilly and raw cast gems by Salli Coppin. Each artist plays with light in a vastly different medium. (Image: Brilliant Black, Salli Coppin, sterling silver and black tourmaline)
Jah Roc Galleries, Margaret River town
Until Apr 9, North and South Perspective
Three well established Western Australian artists, Larry Mitchell, Judy Prosser, Ingrid Windram, unite in this joint exhibition that embodies their individual interpretation of the WA landscape. From the dusty red North West with rugged cliffs, all the way down to the green and lush forested South West with spectacular sandy beaches. (Image: Judy Prosser, In The Paperbark Forest)
Margaret River Sculpture Park, Hamelin Bay
On Saturday and Sunday the sculpture park's treasure hunt turns into their annual Easter bunny chocolate hunt. Bring the kids along to see the quirky characters created by local 'chainsaw' artist Brendan Boothof. The 30 sculpture pieces include Homer Simpson, Zoot from the Muppets and a giant dhufish. Free entry for kids under four.
Garden Art Studio, Yallingup
Apr 1-10, Easter Exhibition
The Easter Exhibition at Yallingup's Garden Art Studio will showcase paintings by Nellie Crawford, Douglas Kirsop and Larry Mitchell who have all produced artworks that reference compositions exploring colour, texture and light across the genres. Combining with these leading artists, renowned jeweller Keiko Uno will be showcasing for the first time her exquisite jewellery inspired by Sugarloaf Rock in the capes region. (image: Douglas Kirsop, Late Glow, Karijini (segment))
Boranup Gallery, Forest Grove
Boranup Gallery is an iconic gallery showcasing a stunning collection of solid timber furniture, each piece custom made from premium West Australian Hardwoods. The gallery also presents works by designers and artists, including paintings, photography and sculptures.
Gunyulgup Galleries, Yallingup
Gunyulgup Galleries, off Caves Road just south of represent over 80 artists and craftspersons. Displays of paintings, prints, sculpture, ceramics, glass, jewellery and textiles are changing constantly.
Jenny Taylor Designs, Busselton
One of the few art galleries in WA where you can actually see the artist at work. 90% of the work featured is the work of Jenny Taylor. She reproduces her art into usable artforms. eg placemats, coasters, bookmarks cards…
The Studio Gallery, Yallingup
The Studio Gallery & Bistro is a unique destination in Yallingup that combines the experience of great food and inspirational art all in one beautiful bush setting. Their Easter exhibition features works by Bronwen Newbury, Carly Le Cerf and Jill Noble