Crows Nest InStudio Art Trail marks 10th anniversary across August

The popular self-drive InStudio Art Trail held north of Toowoomba this month celebrates its 10th anniversary.

Toowoomba Regional Council Library and Cultural Services portfolio leader Cr Tim McMahon said more than 40 artists across 28 locations from Highfields to Crows Nest were participating in this year’s event.

“The picturesque high country setting along The Great Dividing Range is an inspiring backdrop for the trail and is worth enjoying as a separate outing,” Cr McMahon said.

“Artists are in creative pockets at Ravensbourne, Hampton, Cabarlah and Meringandan, as well as around Highfields and Crows Nest.

“The free, self-drive trail follows the established program where artists open their home studios on selected weekends to welcome art aficionados across August (August 7 & 8; 14 & 15; 21 & 22; 28 & 29).

“The trail’s third weekend on August 21 and 22 will see all 40 participating artists opening their studio doors to welcome visitors.

“Participating artists welcome the public to their exhibition and creative spaces where they will provide an insight into their artistic practice and processes, creative methods and sources of inspiration.

“The discovery trail will venture to studios that are home to painters, sculptors, mosaicists, photographers, leathercrafters, textile artists, screen printers, ceramicists, glass artisans and other creative pursuits.

“Artists learn how to show and market their work, while the public gains an insight into the processes involved in a wide variety of art forms.

“A leisurely drive between the studios offers a chance to enjoy sweeping views with stops at quaint and quirky cafes, country pubs or parks.”

The third weekend also sees five new feature artists joining the program.

Wire sculptor Jobella Bennett will join other newcomers Barbara Somervaille (floral watercolours), Tracie Davies (leathercraft), Robyn Croad (watercolours) and Yvonne Ragonesi (mosaics) on this year’s InStudio Art Trail.

Brochures and maps are available from the Hampton and Toowoomba Visitor Information Centres and the Crows Nest Community Arts and Crafts shop at 18 William Street, Crows Nest.

Plan your journey via the hard copy brochure or the digital trail guide by visiting, www.tr.qld.gov.au/events 

The InStudio Art Trail is supported through funding from the Crows Nest and Highfields Community Branches of Heritage Bank with support from the Toowoomba Regional Council’s Event Support grant program.

Participating artists are using the Check In Queensland app.

Images: Chris Norris – Outback 9 (top) Marg Shaw – Blue (centre) Jenie Fawckner – Hampton Hills, below