Printmaker Caroline Juniper
Margaret River Region Open Studios had record-breaking success this year and will return in spring 2022 - from 10 to 25 September - for two incredible weeks of immersive and interactive art experiences.
Margaret River Region Open Studios Chair Jim Davies said this year’s event surpassed all previous records.
“We had a 30 percent increase in overall visitor numbers compared to 2020 and the highest number in the event’s eight-year history,” he said.
“There were a staggering 85,000-plus total studio visits to our 140 artists over the 16 days.
“We had the largest ever visitation from Perth art lovers with a 33 percent growth and more than half our visitation making the trip from Perth to visit artist studios from Busselton to Witchcliffe.
“This year also saw a high number of first-time visitors, with 37 percent of art lovers enjoying Open Studios for the first time.”
On average visitors went to more than 10 studios during their time in the region, and 66 percent bought artwork from our artists during the event.
“I am always delighted how overwhelmingly positive all the comments are on the annual visitor survey, it’s a testament to the lovely way our artists welcome visitors to their studios.”
A huge variety of art forms were represented this year, and visitors had the opportunity to visit painters, print makers, ceramicists, sculptors, mixed media artists, photographers, tattoo artists, a milliner, and rug maker.
Hosting the event in spring allows visitors to see the Margaret River region in all its glory, with abundant wildflowers and mild sunny days, the perfect time of year to take a road trip through the area, stopping at the studios of incredibly talented artists.
Artists residing in the Margaret River Region can register for next year’s event from 1 February and registrations will close on March 31. Further information is available from mrropenstudios.com.au. Follow the event on Instagram, Facebook or sign up to the newsletter here.
Margaret River Region Open Studios is made possible thanks to Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries, Tourism Western Australia, Jacksons Drawing Supplies, Private Properties, Hemsley Paterson, Shire of Augusta Margaret River, City of Busselton, Art Gallery of Western Australia and more.