Words by Della Vreeland Images as captioned
When we think of the characteristics that define Victoria’s most northern regions, we often remark on the balmy temperatures, the diverse landscapes, the towering eucalypts and, of course, the calming allure of our iconic Murray River.
But rarely do we bestow artistic credence to that part of our state.
Yet if we travel across the length and breadth of the Murray, we come across several cultural offerings that not only showcase the stunning natural phenomena of the north but which celebrate the artistic prowess inherent within the region (and beyond). Here is our humble art lover’s guide to the Murray River, which we hope will only serve to enrich your appreciation of our border towns.
Mildura Arts Centre
A leading arts and culture hub in North West Victoria, the Mildura Arts Centre boasts a regional art gallery, a performing arts theatre, a sculpture park, historic quarters and a cafe bar all in one location. Catch a comedy act, admire the contemporary art, explore Rio Vista Historic House and round off your experience with a grazing platter and drinks at the VISTA Cafe Bar. Culture vulture, satisfied!
Barkindji Wiimpatya Murra Centre (BMEET)
Bringing country and culture to life, this Aboriginal cultural centre features a range of artworks including painted kangaroo skins, hand-crafted jewels, didgeridoos, wood-burnt art, carved bowls and ever-so-vibrant paintings. The centre is also home to the Ridgy Didge Record Breaker – the largest playable didgeridoo recorded in Australia! Cultural tours are also available, you’ll just need to make an appointment.
Swan Hill Regional Art Gallery
Sitting pretty near the Little Murray River and the Pioneer Settlement and with bountiful natural surrounds as its backdrop, the woolshed-inspired Swan Hill Regional Art Gallery offers art enthusiasts a rich and soulful experience. The gallery prides itself on its growing public art collection, touring exhibitions, workshops, and high-calibre concerts – many of which showcase the venue’s magnificent 1923 Steinway and Sons grand piano. Quite the hero!
Koondrook Barham Redgum Statue River Walk
Situated on the banks of the Murray River, the Redgum statue walk is located approximately an hour northwest of Echuca, meandering between the towns of Koondrook and Barham. With the sculptures carved by artist Kevin Guilders and his trusty chainsaw, the trail depicts the pioneer men and women of the district as well as the local wildlife. Spot the carved kanga, pelican, goanna, kookaburra and cod, and keep an eye out for the very first statue created of Mr Alexander Arbuthnot – the founder of the Arbuthnot Sawmill in the late 1800s which is still in operation.
Foundry Art Space
Home to the Echuca Moama Arts Initiative, the Foundry Art Space is situated on the stunning Murray Esplanade in the heart of the town’s historic Port Precinct. Housed in the former Old Freemans Foundry building, the space welcomes artists of all kinds and creative aficionados to soak up works from the region’s finest artists and creators. With a regular calendar of exhibitions and events, as well as the opportunity to connect with like-minded folk, the Foundry is one of the Murray’s most iconic cultural hubs.
Whistle Stop Studio Gallery
Here’s another one for heritage lovers. Housed in a relocated heritage-listed railway station (formerly Strathmerton Railway Station) the Whistle Stop Studio Gallery showcases a whole range of pieces across various mediums, each celebrating and inspired by the beauty of the Murray. Located on the Port of Echuca with the river as its backdrop, the gallery gives visitors the chance to admire the artworks, watch artists create on-site, and purchase their own prints, cards or photos.
Albury Wodonga Public Art Trail
Experience Albury and Wodonga in a whole different light as you venture through the streets and alleyways in search of the captivating public art displays – murals, sculptures, wrapped infrastructure and more. A legacy of the a legacy of the 2021 Upstream art and culture festival, the trail boasts an array of established and new works. Find the online map here, look up, look below, look beside you, and see what creatures and creations you encounter.
Hyphen – Wodonga Library Gallery
A community hub with a dual purpose (hence the name), Hyphen is a venue where locals and visitors can nurture their creative juices, connect with friends and engage their curiosities. Housed in an impressive architectural, dash-like building, the hub merges art and literature and features an array of art exhibitions, artist-in-residence programs, workshops, activities for all the kids, and a dedicated library. The space also boasts several galleries including Artspace Gallery, Playspace Gallery and Community Gallery, so there’s no questioning or not whether you’ll receive your art fix.
THE DETAILS:
WHAT: Art along The Murray
WHEN: All year round
FIND OUT MORE: Visit The Murray
We wish to acknowledge the Wadawurrung people as traditional owners of this land and to pay our respects to their Elders, past and present.
