Planning Your Visit

Have a look through the Trail booklet and see the wide variety on offer. Mark those which most interest you, so you can plan your route accordingly.

Because the it covers such a large area, to ‘do Art Trail’ thoroughly you are going to want to dedicate more than one day! You might decide to do a ‘mini-trail’ in one area… have a days break… then do another elsewhere. Or you could select a route that takes you to a variety of wineries, and combine your love of trying new wines with viewing the art on display. Or you could plan to visit towns filled with art plus history, food and accommodation – and take a break there! The choice is yours. Whichever option you choose will take you through some beautiful country side, to see some wonderful art.

Plan Your Route

Notice in the Trail Booklet that not all venues are open at all times. Check the days and times to make sure you are not disappointed.

Opening times of venues are indicated in the Trail booklet according to the information provided at time of going to print. However, things can sometimes change. ArtSouthWA is not responsible for any venue not being open as indicated in the booklet – please contact the artist or venue directly.

Event Locations

Each venue listing outlines the most direct route to the venue. They are also geographically grouped and colour coded throughout the booklet. The maps are designed as a guide to assist in planning your route. We recommend you use comprehensive local or online maps to assist you to find venues. Artist’s listings on www.artsouthwa.com.au also show a live google map location.

Travel Safely

Travel at a safe speed – please adapt your driving for country road conditions. Be aware of the weather, light, traffic, and road conditions… wildlife, livestock, road trains, farm machinery… stay safe.

While on Art Trail, you are responsible for your own safety and personal belongings. ArtsouthWA Inc. is not responsible for any loss or damage or injury, however caused, to the property or person of any visitor to studios, or other premises, listed in the guide-book.

An alternative to driving is to connect with Busy Blue Bus Tours Albany. They organise day trips during the Art Trail, to take you on wonderful excursions combining art, food and wine.

Determine how many venues you can realistically fit into a day. We find 5 to 7 is good to aim for, giving you time to chat, buy, refresh, and drive.

• Be respectful of the Studios, Homes, Galleries and Exhibitions that you will visit.
• Connect with the Artists and assist them by completing our ArtSouth surveys, or any Guest Books they may point you to.
• Always supervise your children while you visit.
• Contact the Artist or venue managers first if you would like to bring a dog onto their property.
• Take a moment to read any notices, warnings, etc, that may be on the premises.

Many artists love to chat about their work, and understand that you will benefit greatly by knowing more about their meaning, process and motivation. So feel free to approach them, ask questions, and become part of the whole artistic process.

Here are some questions that might get you started…

1. How long have you been an artist/crafter?
2. Where do you get your inspiration or ideas from?
3. Can you tell me something about this piece?
4. What mediums do you prefer to work in?
5. How long did this take to create?

FOR EXAMPLE: TOUR FROM 2023…

Depart Albany Visitor Centre at 08:30am with your Busy Blue Bus | Albany Tours tour group and guide.  Head west along the South Coast Highway to visit at least five  galleries in Torbay and Denmark. At Torbay Glass, in a beautiful elevated location, see the works of Mark Hewson and Paris Johanson.  Not far away is the photographic art of Meleah Farrell in her secluded studio. Onwards the tour travels to the town of Denmark for a quick stop for coffee then to the gallery of ceramicist Jonathan Hook. We stop for lunch at a  winery in a scenic location with a glass of wine. The tour returns to Albany at 4pm. Relax and enjoy the ride; let someone else do the driving and navigating.

Departure point is Albany Visitor Centre 221 York St Albany Western Australia.  Parking at rear of building.

You can book easily HERE