The 16th annual Surf Coast Arts Trail is coming up on 1 and 2 August and fans can whet their creative appetites at a preview exhibition underway at Anglesea Art Space.
A Taste of the Trail features works from more than 50 participating Trail artists from across the shire, ranging from painting to sculpture, woodwork and ceramics.
Surf Coast Shire Council Mayor Libby Stapleton said A Taste of the Trail provides an enticing glimpse of some of the art, artists, studios and creative experiences that will be part of this year's Trail.
"The exhibition shines a spotlight on the amazing breadth and depth of creative talent we are fortunate to have in our region, and of course serves to build anticipation and excitement ahead of the Trail," Cr Stapleton said.
"Supporting community arts and culture is a key priority in our Council Plan, and the Arts Trail is a major driver for our creative economy.
"This year's event promises to be another beauty, with 65 studios, galleries and creative spaces showcasing the works of more than 300 artists for an anticipated 15,000 or more visitors across the two days."
The A Taste of the Trail exhibition will run until 21 June, with the Art Space open 11am to 4pm Thursday to Sunday.
Torquay-based father and son timber artisans Mark and Liam Waters of LAMwood Creations are preparing to participate in the Trail for the fifth time, and excited to be part of the exhibition.
They specialise in milling timber reclaimed from urban land clearing, roadworks, storms and natural attrition and transforming it into fine furniture and items such as bowls and keepsake boxes.
"What's exciting is actually creating the pieces," Mark said.
"I really enjoy the fact that there might be a piece that has just been lying around, unloved and silvering sitting in the corner, and I'm able to rejuvenate it, rebirth it and give back some enjoyment and useability to it.
"And Liam just loves wood. He loves the grain, he loves the craziness – just the absurdity of where the grain doesn't go and does go."
Timber for LAMwood items like occasional tables is often combined with coloured resin, inspired by Torquay's surfboard manufacturing story.
Mark and Liam will be opening their workshop in Ocean Acres Drive, Torquay, for the Trail for the first time this year, after having previously exhibited from a gallery in Freshwater Creek.
People can visit surfcoastartstrail.com.au to read about artists participating in this year's Trail and start planning their adventures.
This year's event will include an exciting new dimension with volunteers supporting artists and venues across the two days, welcoming patrons and helping with administrative tasks.
People interested in volunteering can find more information and register by visiting surfcoast.vic.gov.au/volunteer
