Running from October 22 to October 30, Mundaring Hills Open Studios is a once-per-year opportunity to visit 33 studios and galleries displaying the work of 61 participating artists.
Started in 2009 by painter and ceramic artist Joel Smoker and potter Greg Crowe, Mundaring Hills Open Studios has grown from ten founding artists to become a must-see event on the annual arts calendar, embracing a range of styles from painting, drawing and printmaking to ceramics, glass art, metal and woodwork.
Venues to explore this year include Juniper Galleries in Darlington, the former studio of the late great artist Robert Juniper, and Bellevue Artspace, a recently established gallery and workshop venue at the gateway to the Hills. The Mundaring Arts Centre with its gallery and gift shop is also a must-see stop on the trail.
Most importantly, take the opportunity to meet the artists in their private studios, which are otherwise off limits for the rest of the year, including some of the founding artists still on display, including Crowe and painters Christine Hingston and Jeremy Holton,
Mundaring Hills Open Studios extends over nine days, opening times and days will vary between individual studios. See the website for full details, including a digital brochure and map, or pick up a copy of this year’s brochure from venues across the Hills and metropolitan area, including Jackson's Drawing Supplies stores.
Planning a day trip or weekend stay
From the city, Mundaring is an easy 45-minute drive and stretches from Bellevue and Swan View in the foothills to Chidlow and Sawyers Valley in the east. It’s an easy day trip but an even better weekend away, with plenty of cottages and boutique accommodation available in the hills.
Spring is the perfect time to visit. The hills are still green, wildflowers are on display and the creeks and rivers are still running. Mix up your stay with a walk through one of the many trails and drop in at a café or restaurant for lunch. Popular attractions include the beautiful Lake Leschenaultia and John Forrest National Park.
For more on Mundaring, check out our Scoop guide here.
Check out more arts and events around Perth here.