Ballarat's historic Mining Exchange burst to life on Thursday with colour and creativity as internationally acclaimed UK artist Morag Myerscough unveiled Sunnyside: Chasing Sunbeams, a major new art experience celebrating imagination, connection, and community.
Running from now until 23 November, the installation transforms one of Ballarat's most iconic heritage spaces into a joyous world of wonder and curiosity.
City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Tracey Hargreaves said that Sunnyside is a must-see for locals and visitors alike.
"Sunnyside is a celebration of what makes Ballarat so special; our creativity, our sense of community, and our boldness to embrace new ideas," she said.
"To see Morag Myerscough's work come to life here is nothing short of inspiring. I encourage everyone to come down, step inside, and experience it for themselves."
"Whether you're a local or visiting for the weekend, this is a fantastic opportunity to see Ballarat in a new light."
Developed through workshops and collaboration with Ballarat's arts community, Chasing Sunbeams represents Myerscough's first major Australian project in a regional city.
Local words and stories are embedded within the artwork and its accompanying soundscape; a specially composed audio piece created with local musician Raul Sanchez I Jorge.
The work is a celebration of Ballarat's rich identity, inviting visitors to embrace the unknown through exploration and play.
Myerscough said the work explores the delicate balance between human innovation and nature, shaped deeply by Ballarat's stories of resilience and connection.
"Spending time on Country with the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners was deeply grounding. It offered a way of seeing that is cyclical, connected, and full of quiet strength. The experience reminded me that everything is interwoven with people, place, time, nature and spirit," she said.
"The piece has been deeply informed by conversations and collaborations with the local community. Listening to people's stories and learning from their experiences."
"This dialogue ensured the installation is not just for the community, but with them a co-created expression of care, fragility, and collective future-thinking."
Presented by award-winning creative studio, The Social Crew, Sunnyside is a bold new cultural experience supported by the City of Ballarat via the City Partnerships Program, with additional funding from Visit Victoria.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos said Ballarat has one of the most vibrant art scenes in regional Victoria.
"Sunnyside is a wonderful addition to the Victorian events calendar, not just for the people of Ballarat, but for art lovers around the state," he said.
"We're proud to support events like this through our Regional Events Fund, because it will fill Ballarat's hotels, cafes and small businesses with visitors - providing a huge economic boost to the region."
Member for Wendouree, Juliana Addison said Sunnyside was expected to draw in crowds that will provide a welcome boost to local businesses.
"This exhibition is going to be a hit among the local community and a winner for local businesses who are set to benefit from the crowds Sunnyside will attract," she said.
Beyond the main installation, Sunnyside spills into Ballarat's streets and laneways with a program of talks, creative workshops, and community activations for people of all ages to get involved.
Discover the full program of free and ticketed events at sunnysideart.com.au.
