Words by Tehya Nicholas Images supplied
Pristine landscapes have long inspired Australian artists. From the vibrant paintings by First Nations artists and the contemporary works of today’s creatives – and now to you.
Hamilton Gallery, the home of visual art in the Southern Grampians, is offering two unique life drawing classes nestled in historic homesteads, overlooking the stunning natural surroundings of Victoria’s Western District.
Following the success of a sold-out event at the Arrandoovong Homestead in Branxholme, the Gallery invites both aspiring and experienced artists to join painter and multimedia artist Gareth Colliton and life models in a series of self-directed life drawing lessons.
First, Life is Drawing at Chateau Kolor on Saturday, 17 June.
Located on a working Angus cattle farm in Penshurst, this charming 1868 bluestone homestead offers sweeping views of Gunditjmara Country, the Grampians, and the surrounding farmlands. Not to mention a dormant volcano, Mt Rouse.
A three-hour drive from Melbourne, the homestead boasts Heritage-listed gardens and original stables. It’s an inspiring backdrop for artistic expression, which – when paired with a glass of local wine – is sure to get your creative juices flowing.
Continuing the artistic journey, the following weekend, on Saturday, 24 June, the Gallery will set up inside the iconic Mount Sturgeon Homestead.
This magnificent colonial residence and working farm, managed by the Royal Mail Hotel, boasts breathtaking views of Wurgarri (Mount Sturgeon). Attendees can explore the homestead’s restored interiors, wander through the abundant vegetable garden, and pick autumn fruit at the orchard.
‘Participants will gain a rare glimpse into these regional retreats in what are the first life drawing sessions hosted in these atmospheric spaces,’ Gallery Director, Joshua White says.
‘By combining creative learning guided by a talented artist with iconic landscapes, live music, and tastes of the region, we’re offering unique experiences that we hope will leave a lasting impact on participants.’
The life drawing classes are part of Hamilton Gallery’s “Art Outside The Walls” program, showcasing various artistic endeavours across the Southern Grampians region until the end of June.
As the Gallery undergoes infrastructure upgrades, it is hosting free workshops for children and teenagers, along with a pop-up exhibition. The culmination of these initiatives will be a grand reopening in July, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Friends of Hamilton Gallery.
Art enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking a dynamic cultural experience are encouraged to seize the opportunity to participate in these immersive life drawing classes. As Hamilton Gallery continues to forge innovative connections between art, heritage, and local culture, these events promise to make a lasting impression on the artistic landscape of Victoria’s Western District.
THE DETAILS
WHAT: Hamilton Gallery’s Life Drawing series
WHERE: Chateau Kolor, Penhurst + Mount Sturgeon Homestead, Dunkeld
WHEN: 17 June 2023 + 24 June 2023
MORE INFO: Hamilton Gallery
We wish to acknowledge the Eastern Maar people as traditional owners of this land and to pay our respects to their Elders, past and present.
