By Tanya Steele
YAVA is calling for artists to submit applications by 28 April for its Open Studio weekends program in Yarra Valley and Upper Yarra this October.
Reggie Clark from member and artist engagement at YAVA is excited about people applying and said both artists and visitors can get a lot out of the experience.
“People can go and visit them in their studios and see how they work, what inspires them, see how they do things,” she said.
Ms Clark said the experience is unique as it offers an immersive way for artists to display their process and the environment in which they create work.
“They can touch the tools, perhaps, smell the paint, it’s quite a special experience stepping into that really personal space,” she said.
“It’s really great for them to meet their fans and just talk to people.”
The Open Studios program is for both established and emerging artists and has run since 2017.
Some artists that have participated before will be there this year and include Denise Smith, a wildlife artist, Bev Hardidge a potter and painter, Graeme Hardidge who is a metal sculptor and potter Ted Secombe.
Artists do not need a traditional studio to apply, but rather a dedicated and accessible space which showcases how artists work in their homes.
“Some people use a spare bedroom, some use the front porch, they’re dedicated spaces about where you create,” said Ms Clark.
Artists that are accepted into the program have the chance to showcase their work and make connections in the community, among a range of other benefits.
“They’ll be able to show what they do, they might get commissions out of it or they might be able to book a workshop if they run workshops,” Ms Clark said.
The Open Studio weekends program will run over two weekends in the Yarra Valley on 21 and 22 October and Upper Yarra on the 4 and 5 November.
The Open Studio exhibition will be at the YAVA gallery from 12 October to 5 November.
Artists interested in submitting an application must do it online by 28 April at 5pm.
