Artists to open their doors for arts trail

More than 40 artists from the Moreton Bay hinterland are set to open their studios and galleries this June as part of the 10^th annual Samford and Surrounds Arts Trail and Open Studios event.

This month-long celebration gives art lovers, day-trippers and locals the unique opportunity to interact with the artists, learn their techniques and participate in workshops.

This year’s jam-packed itinerary will feature a diverse range of genres and techniques including visual artists, ceramicists, jewellers, woodworkers, textile artists and photographers.

Meet some of the artists taking part and click through their galleries below. 

Helen and Ella Evans

Visual artist Helen Evans, who was instrumental in helping to establish the Samford Arts Trail, says the event has continued to grow each year.

“The idea of the trail is to showcase all the amazing talent we have here in the region and allow the community to see what the artists do, where they do it and why they do it, which is something you won’t experience in a big gallery,” Helen says.

“The trail puts you right in the heart of the artist’s space, so you can fully appreciate their passion and see their pieces in a different light.

“That’s why more and more visitors come each year.”

Helen will exhibit several paintings she created while completing a year-long residency at a flower farm, as well as host workshops from her home studio in Cedar Creek.

Her daughter Ella will also display her canvases for the public to admire.

To find out more about Helen, visit her website. 

Bethan Burton 

This year’s extravaganza will also feature plenty of fresh faces, including Samford artist and environmental educator Bethan Burton.

As the founder of International Nature Journaling Week, Bethan will teach others how to create their own nature journal.

“I am all about helping people connect with nature,” Bethan says.

“When you take the time to observe what is going on around you and then record what you find, not only are you creating a deeper connection to your environment, but you are also opening your eyes to a new world of wonder.

“Nature journaling is a great way to de-stress and calm the nervous system, making it a beautiful and gentle way to add some self-care into your life.”

To find out more about Bethan, visit her website. 

Kylie Harries 

Impressed with the high calibre of local talent taking part in this year’s trail, event coordinator Kylie Harries (who is also multidisciplinary artist educator living and working from her studio The Hay Shed in Lacey’s Creek) is urging people to mark the dates in their calendars now.

“This is a much-loved event that attracts visitors from all-over South East Queensland,” Kylie says.

“Whether you have been before or you’re planning on coming for the first time, you will find plenty of amazing displays, pieces and workshops that are unique to Moreton Bay – you won’t find what we have to offer anywhere else.

“With the trail spread across four weekends, this is also a perfect opportunity for visitors to uncover more of the region’s hidden gems such as local cafes, restaurants, shops and parks.”

The Samford and Surrounds Arts Trail and Open Studios is hosted by Samford Creative Inc.

The trail is supported by Community Bank Samford part of Bendigo Bank, Kwik Kopy Geebung, Chelsea Perry at Craig Doyle Real Estate, The Long Yard Larder Samford, Mercure Clear Mountain Lodges, City of Moreton Bay and MBRIT.

To find out more about Kylie, visit her website. 

About the Samford Arts Trail

• The trail meanders from Samford Valley to Clear Mountain, Cashmere and Eatons Hill to Cedar Creek and Dayboro.
• Studios will be open from 10am-4pm every Saturday and Sunday, or by appointment.
• To see the full program of events, visit the Creative Samford website.