Head west for Australia's largest open art studios event

Australia's largest open art studios event is returning to Margaret River in April 2018 with a new look.

More than 130 artists will participate in the event from April 28 to May 13 and studios will be thrown open to visitors from Busselton to Augusta in the south west of Western Australia. 

Margaret River Region Open Studios chairman Jim Davies said it was fitting for the style of the creative and interactive event to evolve in its fifth year.

“We're thrilled to have so many talented artists keen to open their studios to the public for this year's Margaret River Region Open Studios event, and with the organic growth of the event year-on-year we wanted to also create a strong and identifiable brand," Davies said.

“The vibrant colours in the brand reflect the stunning colours of the Margaret River region, which inspire our artists on a daily basis.

“Our program for this year is packed with a wealth of diverse artistic talent, allowing visitors to pick out their favourite artists, mediums, styles, days or locations to create a personal DIY experience.” 

Art lovers have the opportunity to meet the people behind the local art scene and get a peek into their creative lives and inspirational spaces.

Mediums featured include painting, drawings, sculpture, glass blowing, print making, furniture making, jewellery, ceramics and textiles.

Local artists are the stars of the show and talent this year includes renowned landscape artist Douglas Kirsop, who is participating for the first time, as well as other well-known names including Rachel Coad, Leon Pericles, Rebecca Cool, Mary Lynne Stratton, Lauren Wilhelm and Jo Broadhurst. 

Each artist's studio, workshop or exhibition space is mapped, allowing visitors to easily plan their inspirational days over the 16-day event. Margaret River Region Open Studios is free to attend and no bookings are needed. See mrros.com.au.