Step One: What type of art interests you?

Have a look through the Trail booklet and see the wide variety on offer. Use the booklet map and Google maps to find the best way to take them all in.

Step Two: Plan your trip

Because the Art Trail covers such a large area you are going to want to dedicate more than one day! You could select a route that takes you to a variety of wineries, and combine your love of trying new wines. You could choose a route that takes you through some beautiful country side and indulge your love of the great outdoors. Or you could plan to visit towns filled with history, food and accommodation – and put your feet up!

Be COVID Safe

When you visit commercial venues you will be required to go through the normal COVID check in processes. In home studios or hired halls you will be offered either a scan or hard copy entry document to complete. Please keep yourself and everyone else safe by abiding by these and other COVID requirements.

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 guide-book according to information provided at time of going to print. ArtSouthWA Inc. is not responsible for any venue not being open when indicated in the guide-book. If in doubt, please contact the artist or venue first.

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 centre map is 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 listing on www.artsouthwa.com.au are also accompanied by a live google map location.

Travel Safely

Travel at a safe speed – adapt your speed for the weather, light, traffic and road conditions. Be aware of wildlife, livestock, road trains and machinery on country roads. 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.

Another alternative is to connect with Busy Blue Bus Tours Albany. They organise day trips during the Art Trail to take you on a wonderful excursion containing art, food and wine combined.

Step Three

Determine how many you would like to fit into a day. 5 to 7 exhibitions is good to aim for, giving you time to chat, buy, refresh and drive.

Plan Your Visit

Some other considerations…

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

Having a Conversation with the Artists

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’s some questions that will get you started…

  1. How did you make this piece?
  2. Where did the inspiration or ideas come from?
  3. Does it have meanings other than what I first see?
  4. Are you self-taught or have you had some training?
  5. Do you do commissions?

Save yourself the driving!

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