More than 80 artists will throw open the doors to 35 studios across Lake Macquarie this weekend as Lake Mac Open Studios returns for its seventh year.
Held on Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 November from 10am-4pm, the free self-guided art trail offers visitors a rare opportunity to go behind the scenes of the creative process, meet local artists, watch demonstrations and purchase original artworks directly from the makers.
Lake Macquarie City Council Cultural Projects Curator Charlotte Hilder said the event had become a highlight of the city's cultural calendar.
"Lake Mac Open Studios gives people the chance to step inside the creative spaces where ideas come to life," she said.
"We have an incredible depth of artistic talent across Lake Macquarie, and this event is a fantastic way to celebrate that while supporting local artists and small creative businesses."
"This year's program is bigger than ever, with 11 new studios joining the trail and a diverse range of artists working across painting, sculpture, ceramics, textiles, jewellery, photography and more."
Among the new participants is prominent local Aboriginal artist Saretta Fielding, who will be exhibiting as part of the Malang Artists Together group exhibition at Miromaa Aboriginal Language and Technology Centre in Boolaroo.
Fielding said Open Studios would help shine a light on local Aboriginal artists and strengthen connections with the wider arts community.
"I wanted to get involved this time around to create an opportunity for the Aboriginal artists supported by Malang Indigenous Corporation to connect with the local arts community and have a platform to showcase their artwork, creativity and individual practices," she said.
"Open Studios is a wonderful opportunity to come together, share our stories and introduce the community to the diverse creative talents we have here in the Hunter."
Visitors to the Miromaa centre at Boolaroo will be able to view and purchase original works from Aboriginal artists from across the Hunter Region. The Nikinpa Women's Art Group will also return, showcasing handmade leaves and wreaths that celebrate culture, creativity and connection.
A full list of participating studios, artists and trail maps is available at arts.lakemac.com.au
