Calm before the Storm – The story behind the pictures

A guest blog by Photographer Stephen Trutwin

A good photograph, or any other form of art is made all the more meaningful by the story behind it and so I would like to tell you the story behind the photographs I took in Jerusalem and the occupied territory of the West Bank in the first week of October last year, and which I’ve chosen to show at my exhibition entitled “Calm before the Storm”.

My dilemmas are that firstly the story is almost 4000 years long, and secondly much of it isn’t true! The story begins in the form of mythology, superstition, parables, traditions, legends, visions and the naivety of a god-fearing people who couldn’t read or write, let alone search for truth. It was initially passed down the generations by word of mouth and there is no archeological evidence for much of what happened in the beginning, but which created a very long, winding, bloody, story of the images I am showing. The story can’t be told without lots of “maybes”, “probablies” and “possiblies”.

My own story likely began in school, when I studied Ancient History in year 12 and was taught by an inspirational teacher, a Christian Brother, who brought to life the warriors of Sparta, the battles between the Greeks and Persians, the perversions of the mad Roman emperor Caligula and the Marathon run of Pheidippides. He was also the school athletics coach so little wonder I joined the cross-country team at that time and have continued running right up until now.

I’ve continued to read history and in particular that of Western and Central Asia (What Europeans refer to as the Middle East…because it’s East of Europe!) which to me holds greater significance and romance than the European or English history that most white Australians are more familiar with. The conquests of Genghis Khan and Tamerlane, the empires of the Persians, Romans, Byzantines & Ottomans, the characters of Antony & Cleopatra, Samson & Delilah, Laurence of Arabia, David & Goliath, Herod, Richard the Lionheart, Saladin, Suleiman the Magnificent, Jesus & Muhammad, just to name a few.

The monotheistic religions of Christianity, Islam and Judaism, and many others, all developed in this part of the world, along with paper, astronomy, philosophy, medicine, art, sculpture and language. It’s hard to imagine a region of the world that has had as big an influence on human civilization.

In September and October last year I did a solo trip to Istanbul and Jerusalem, Istanbul the site of the relocation by Constantine from Rome in 300 CE and the establishment of the Byzantine Empire which endured for 1100 years, before being conquered by the Ottoman Turks in 1453.

I stayed 2 weeks in Istanbul, one in Europe, one in Asia, on either side of the Bosphorus. I visited some of the most awe-inspiring buildings I’ve seen including the Hagia Sofia Mosque, built in 537 originally as a Christian orthodox church by the emperor at the time, Justinian. Apparently when the church was inaugurated, Justinian said: “Glory to God who has deemed me worthy of such a work. Oh Solomon, I have vanquished thee”, referring to the great temple of Solomon, destroyed 1000 years earlier by Nebuchadnezzer in Jerusalem…where I was heading next. Jerusalem at this time was part of the Byzantine empire, ruled from Istanbul.

My flight to Tel Aviv from Istanbul was delayed which I realized with the 45 minute drive from the airport would get me to Jerusalem in the dark on the Jewish Sabbath. For those who aren’t familiar, the Old City of Jerusalem is approximately 1km square, surrounded by castle-like defensive walls built by the Ottomans under Suleiman the Magnificent in the 1500’s…so quite recent! Greater Jerusalem has now expanded around it but I was keen to stay in the Old City, close to the important sites. But I was nervous to enter through Herod’s Gate in the dark which led down narrow cobbled alleys of the Muslim quarter of the Old City. My instructions from the owner of my AirBnB were to follow along until I saw the Dome of the Rock (the first Muslim Mosque), and turn left through a black doorway. In hindsight, arriving at night was a blessing because the golden Dome of the Rock was illuminated and my first glimpse of it poking up over the rooftops ahead of me has left an indelible memory. So, I turned left through the doorway, found my way up some narrow staircases and through another solid door that opened on to the terrace of my accommodation. The view from there was surely one of the most awesome in Jerusalem with the Dome of the Rock, Temple Mount, Mount of Olives, the Russian Orthodox Church of Mary Magdalene, the city ramparts, minarets and rooftops all laid out before me. I took photographs of the view immediately.

What I didn’t realise when I booked my trip months earlier was that the exact week that I had arranged to stay in Jerusalem was the week-long holiday period of Sukkot. It is said in the book of Exodus, the second book of the Torah or Hebrew bible, that when Moses led the Israelites from slavery in Egypt back to Canaan (this was maybe 1400 BCE), during the journey and for 40 years wandering in the desert, they lived in temporary dwellings called Sukkahs, which means “booth”. When God spoke to Moses at Mt Sinai at this time and gave him the 10 Commandments, they were kept in a tabernacle or Sukkah. Sukkot commemorates the Exodus of the Israelites and Jews now celebrate this by making a pilgrimage to Jerusalem and constructing temporary Sukkahs with palmed roofs in the streets, where they eat and sleep. These can be seen in the Girl and the Cat street photograph.

Each day of Sukkot it is a Jewish commandment to perform a waving ceremony with the “4 species” – a palm frond, branches of myrtle and willow, and a citron (which can be seen by worshipping Orthodox Jews in some of my pictures) – I won’t describe the significance of each of these here.

The next morning, I met a professional photographer, Simon, from Tel Aviv who I had booked to do a 4-5 hour photo tour of the Old City and the nearby Orthodox Jewish suburb of Mea Shearim. We quickly developed a good relationship as we wandered around the Old City capturing all the eccentricities of Sukkot and the religious and historical sites. We had a big bowl of the best hummus I’ve tasted for lunch (the chick peas were ground in a mortar and pestle in front of me) and we ended up spending 7 hours together. Some of the pictures seen in this exhibition were taken whilst with him.

Later that night I left a glowing review on TripAdvisor for him and he messaged me with thanks and to ask if I wanted to meet for coffee a few days later when he was returning to Jerusalem. I agreed, but on the morning we were to meet he messaged again to say that his mother had had a stroke. She died a few days after I returned to Australia. 

The next day, I wandered around by myself in the Old City, revisiting some of the important sites 2 or 3 times. Everything is very close with synagogues, chapels and mosques, interspersed with restaurants, stations of the cross, money changing booths, tourist shops and homes, with narrow doorways and alleys in all directions. It’s a real maze and I often got lost, but was always able to find my way out. 90% of my time in Jerusalem I spent in the Old City apart from a walk to the garden of Gethsemane outside the walls and up to the Mt. of Olives, which looks back across the olive tree-studded Kidron Valley to the Old City and is covered with the headstones of those waiting for Judgement Day, the day they believe the Messiah will return for them to be resurrected and ascend to heaven. 

Each night I’d set up my tripod and photograph the Dome of the Rock from my terrace and take in the awesome view and ponder the ancient history I was looking at. Maybe 400 years before Moses, in maybe 1800BCE, the book of Genesis tells us that Abraham, at the age of 75 (his father died at the age of 200!), walked 700 miles from Mesopotamia in modern-day Iraq to this very spot.

God had promised him and his descendants the land of Canaan, modern-day Israel, and tested his faith by commanding him to sacrifice his son Isaac on Mt Moriah. He tied his son to an altar but just as he was about to kill him an angel appeared and stopped him. Instead, a ram with it’s horns caught in a nearby thicket was sacrificed, but Abraham had passed his test and he and his descendants became God’s chosen people.

This is the premise for why Jewish Zionists today believe that Israel, “The Land of Milk & Honey”, “The Promised Land”, belongs to them. Around 1000 BCE King Solomon, son of David (of David & Goliath fame), built a temple on Mt. Moriah where Isaac’s binding had taken place to house the Ark of the Covenant containing the tablets of the 10 Commandments brought to Jerusalem from Mt. Sinai 400 years earlier. Destroyed by the Babylonians in 586BCE (dates become clearer), it was rebuilt by Herod around the turn of the millennium and again destroyed, this time by the Romans in 70CE. The story of the 4-year siege and destruction of Jerusalem and the 2nd temple is a harrowing tale. It is estimated 600 000 Jerusalemites were killed with 500 people per day being crucified on the Mount of Olives and surrounding hills – with “scarcely room for more, or trees to make them” (Josephus)…so, it’s been going on for a while!

In 621 CE, Muslims believe Muhammad took his night journey on his winged horse Buraq from Mecca in modern-day Saudi Arabia, to the temple Mount in Jerusalem, before ascending to heaven. 70 years later the Dome of the Rock, the first Islamic mosque, was built to commemorate the site, Jerusalem then being under Arab control. Non-muslims are now not allowed to enter the Dome of the Rock, however the interior photographs I’ve seen are amazing…the central part of the floor is one big rock, no carpet but the original bedrock of Mt Moriah, where Abraham first attempted to sacrifice Isaac, the foundation stone for 2 temples and the Holy of Holies, the room where the Ark of the Covenant and 10 Commandments were stored…now enclosed by an Islamic Mosque.

So, from my terrace I felt like I was looking at a giant X-marks-the-spot, the centre of the universe and one of the most important and disputed sites in all human civilization…still to this day. I have 3 photographs of this amazing building in my exhibition, there were even more to choose from, and the predominance of photographs of this one subject is mirrored by the importance it has in Jerusalem and the world, and also how it dominates the Old City skyline…I could always find my way out of a dark alley by looking for the golden dome to get my bearings.

The Dome of the Rock sits atop the Temple Mount or Haram Al Sharif in Arabic, the western wall of which retains the 15 HA compound. The Western Wall is as close as Jews can get to the place where the Holy of Holies was within the 1st and 2nd temples. The Temple Mount is now administered by Jordan and Jews are not allowed to pray or wear religious clothing there and can only enter through one of the 11 gates, which are guarded by Israeli soldiers. I saw soldiers escorting a Jewish family, obviously visiting Jerusalem during Sukkot, site-seeing on the Temple Mount and having family photographs taken in front of the Islamic Dome of the Rock…go figure! The photograph of the two female Israeli soldiers is one of my favourites and is taken at a gate to the Temple Mount that leads from the old Cotton Merchants market. I see glamour, intimidation, tension and contradiction when I look at their made-up faces. 

On my 3rd day, in the afternoon, I left most of my gear in my apartment in Jerusalem and caught the bus to Bethlehem in the West Bank, about 8km away. Or more accurately, the occupied Palestinian territory of the West Bank, one of two Palestinian territories, the other being Gaza which is approximately 100km south of Jerusalem. I stayed at the Walled Off Hotel which is part-owned by the pro-Palestinian English street artist Banksy and who has decorated many of the walls in the guest rooms with his original satirical artwork. The hotel is self-named the ‘hotel with the worst view in the world’…from my room window I eye-balled the 10m high, 700km long concrete separation wall, complete with guard tower, built by the Israeli’s “for defence”.

The wall is covered with graffiti on the Palestinian side, and Banksy himself has contributed to it in the vicinity of the hotel. I took a photograph of myself on the bed in my room, pretending to join in the pillow fight with a Palestinian fighter and an Israeli soldier. What I thought was a bit of fun at the time in hindsight really isn’t funny at all and possibly in bad taste, but I figured if it’s ok for Banksy it’s ok for me. It’s now my profile picture on Instagram and the welcoming picture to my exhibition but I still have mixed feelings about it.

Next morning I was collected by my Palestinian taxi driver Abbas (name changed to protect identity), for a day tour around the West Bank. I was interested to see as much as I could in a day and I told Abbas that I was just as interested in photographing the people as the religious sites. I was hoping to get some photographs of old Arabs with long grey beards, kids playing in the street, store-holders plying their trade, as well as the compulsory religious sites of the Church of the Nativity where Jesus was supposedly born, the Dead Sea, Lazarus’s tomb etc. We walked around the main streets of Ramallah and Jericho and Abbas broke the ice in Arabic and helped me set up some portrait shots, one of which is the black & white of the man you see here.

He was also keen to talk with me about the occupation, show me the Israeli settlements, the separation wall and the difficulties of living and moving around in the West Bank. There are more than 100 different types of permits issued by the Israeli military to restrict every aspect of life in the West Bank and it’s one of the ways the Israelis control the people there. Permits are required to receive medical treatment, travel between the West Bank and Gaza, travel in to Israel including to work, cultivate one’s own land, reside in the West Bank, study, build or modify your house, plant trees etc etc.

Permits often only last 3 months and need to be reapplied for and are sometimes only granted if the applicant signs a statement in support of political negotiation or agrees to collaborate with the Israeli security services, Shin Bet. Hundreds of roadblocks and barriers and surveillance systems are in place. Military bases and depots are dotted around the landscape. Forced evictions, demolitions, arbitrary detention, cutting off mains water supply, shooting holes in rainwater tanks, spraying Palestinian farm land with herbicides, the list goes on. I remember thinking that if this is the way the people here are forced to live, then it’s no wonder they resist, emigrate…or rebel! Abbas showed me his permit and let me take a photograph of it with my phone. 

I’ve stayed in contact with Abbas but I can tell from his more recent messages that he is being careful with what he says and I suspect he deletes all conversations with me afterwards. I naively suggested to him early on that we do a live cross at my exhibition opening but as a father of 5 kids he declined for fear of being arrested. 

At the end of our day together he dropped me at a checkpoint in the wall and I walked back through in to Jerusalem. The checkpoint, one of 49 along the wall’s length, is like an undercover cattle-yard with lots of CCTV cameras, Israeli soldiers behind bulletproof glass and ceiling-height steel turn-styles. I poked my passport through a letterbox sized opening to a small room of 4 IDF soldiers, one inspected it and passed it to another before inspecting it again and finally posting it back to me. Thousands of Palestinian workers pass through these checkpoints daily along the length of the separation wall on their way to and from jobs in Israel…at least that was the case before October 7th last year.

Since October 7th, Abbas has stopped driving, there are no tourists and local people stay off the street. Schools & universities have closed. Roads are blocked. There are soldiers in the streets. Israeli settlers riot and kill Palestinians while the IDF look the other way. The Walled Off Hotel closed on 12th October, it’s staff now with no work. When I last researched, around 400 people have been killed in the West Bank.

That night, back in the Old City, I did a tour of the tunnels under the Western Wall. Over the centuries most of the Western Wall has been built up against and so is no longer visible. The Israeli’s have excavated under all these buildings to gain access to the part of the wall that has been covered. It wasn’t lost on me that the tunnel extends under and in to the Muslim quarter of the city. 

On my final day in Jerusalem, I met a Russian Christian model who is engaged to an Israeli and lives in Tel Aviv. We wandered around the Old City to some locations I’d scoped out in the days before and we captured some shots with a bit of a fashion/street feel. I love the photograph of her waiting in the doorway of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the light there was beautiful. We talked briefly about the war in Ukraine…she seemed somewhat embarrassed by her government. 

I flew out of Tel Aviv at 3pm on 6th October. I recall reading text across the bottom of the tv screen on the plane, something about rockets being fired at Israel, but I wasn’t sure what I was reading or it’s significance. When I arrived in Sydney I received a WhatsApp message from Simon my photography tour guide in Tel Aviv: “Are you still here?”. I told him I’d landed in Sydney to which he replied “There is a war here. Big time”. It was the last day of Sukkot.

In the coming weeks Simon began to post pro-Israeli propaganda on Instagram which began to activate my FU gland! The reason I use Instagram is to inspire my photography not to read other people’s political views, especially when they don’t align with my own, so I stopped following him. I explained this to him when he questioned why I’d unfollowed him. He replied: “ I have lost hundreds of followers for speaking up against the Nazi attack we witnessed. No need to answer. Goodbye.” We haven’t communicated since.

In its history, Jerusalem has been attacked 52 times, captured 44 times and totally destroyed twice. It’s hard to imagine a city anywhere in the world where so much has happened. What’s happening now, taken in the context of history, is just another ugly chapter, the only difference being that instead of horsemen with swords we have unmanned drones and massively powerful guided, and not-so-well guided, missiles. Enemies don’t look each other in the eye and killing requires less courage…and it’s on Instagram within minutes for the world to react to.

In the weeks and months that followed my trip, with Israel and Gaza in my feeds every day, my photographs took on more meaning and became more important to me. I was in Jerusalem 5 days and the West bank only 26 hours so the majority of the 2200 photographs I took were taken in Jerusalem.

Choosing the images for my exhibition was very difficult. Getting from 2200 to 50 was easy (I take a lot of bad photos!), but from 50 to 30 to the 18 shown was a puzzle! I tried to keep a balance of Jewish, Christian and Muslim subject matter. They also needed to be technically good, tell my story and hopefully be pictures that people want to buy…one of my aims in holding the exhibition is to raise money for medical aid in Gaza through Medecins Sans Frontieres who are on the ground in Gaza and the West Bank doing great work. The pictures I chose also and most importantly needed to please ME. I was only there for 6 days, and if I knew I was going to be holding an exhibition I would have stayed longer, gone to different places, photographed different things and taken even more care! But looking back I can say I was very much “in the zone” of taking photographs, I was really focused on what I was doing and motivated to capture as much as I could of the amazing historical place I was in. I’m proud of what I captured and I love looking at all of them. I hope you do too.

Stephen Trutwin
March 2024

The Fleurieu Biennale Art Prize Returns for 2024

artists are invited to submit their work exploring the theme of a sense of place by march 31st

Following the lost years of the global pandemic, Fleurieu Arthouse are pleased to be hosting the prestigious Fleurieu Biennale as it returns for 2024.

Artists are invited to submit works (2D or 3D) exploring the theme A Sense of Place.

There are three prizes;

The Fleurieu Art Prize - $20,000

Emerging Artist’s Prize - $5000

People’s Choice Award - $2000\

Judges include Lisa Slade, Assistant Director Artistic Programs at Art Gallery of South Australia, Brian Parkes, CEO at Jam Factory and Nichola Folland Head of Contemporary Studies and Sculpture at Adelaide Central School of Art.

Online entries opened on 15 January 2024 for artworks created after 1 January 2023. For more details, including the Terms and Conditions of entry visit the website.

An important part of our cultural heritage

First established in 1998, The Fleurieu Biennale Art Prize was the brainchild of David Dridan, Greg Trott and Tony Parkinson who shared a common goal to raise the profile of the Fleurieu Peninsula.

Over the years, the prize has garnered much publicity for the area and for entrants and prize winners alike.The Fleurieu Art Prize was ambitious from the outset and is considered to be an important part of our cultural heritage today.

Previous winners include -

2018 James Tylor and Laura Willis for their collaborative artwork Hidden Landscapes: Kangaroo Island.

Hidden Landscapes: Kangaroo Island - James Tylor and Laura Willis

2016 Tony Albert for his piece The Hand You’re Dealt.

The Hand You’re Dealt - Tony Albert

2013 - Fiona Lowry for. her work Alone with you.

Alone with you - Fiona Albert

All shortlisted finalists will be invited to exhibit their artwork at the Fleurieu Arthouse in McLaren Vale, South Australia from 7 June – 14 July 2024. The winning artwork will be selected from this exhibition.   

All artworks in the exhibition will be available for sale, with a commission retained by the not for profit Fleurieu Art Foundation to cover costs of future events. 

The winners and other finalists of both the Fleurieu Biennale Art Prize and the Emerging Artist prize may be invited to participate in artist talks and media events surrounding the event. 

See the website for more information and the Terms & Conditions of entry. 

Key Dates 

Entries open: 15 January 2024 

Entries close: 5pm Sunday 31st March 2024 

Finalists announced: First week of May 2024 

Shortlisted Works delivered: 1-4 June 2024 

Exhibition: 7 June – 14 July 2024 

Winner announced: 7 June 2024 at Fleurieu Arthouse

Clarke & Vadasz Exhibition for Adelaide Fringe 2024

Greg Clarke and Louise Vadasz join forces for Adelaide Fringe at Fleurieu Arthouse

Good friends Greg Clarke and Louise Vadasz first met whilst studying fine art at the South Australian School of Art. Some years and a number of successes down the line, the pair have come together again with a new exhibition here at Fleurieu Arthouse.

Clarke is well-known in Adelaide as the one-time director of the Adelaide Fringe, a position he held for 5 years before moving interstate and taking on the creative directorship of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardis Gras.

While he no longer calls Adelaide home, his ties here remain strong and visiting is always a highlight for him.

Clarke’s move interstate has been an inspiration though, and his landscape paintings tell of his home in an idyllic location on the New South Wales mid-north coast. Capturing the magical light of the ocean, mountains and architecture that now surround him is something that preoccupies Clarke.

The Breakwater - Greg Clarke

The still life works presented in this latest exhibition are elegant and pared down, blurred lines and calming subjects bring an ethereal quality to the otherwise bold and contemporary vases and jars.

Blue Vase, Red Vase - Greg Clarke

“I paint very simple paintings that are more about line and form in very calming colours,” he said recently in an interview for an article about the exhibition published in In Review.

Vadasz’s works are a riot of rich colour with vibrant still life floral arrangements and large abstract landscapes in her unmistakably loose style. Vadasz has been a finalist in a number of art prizes and cites her two artistic loves as abstract landscape and still life.

Spring Poppies - Louise Vadasz

Most of Vadasz’s works are heavy impasto painted on transparent linen; she says, “I’m switching from each subject with a similar technique of layering the thick oil paint to create a rich surface of intense colour,”.

Spring Oratunga - Louise Vadasz

Clarke and Vadasz can be seen until March 17th here at Fleurieu Arthouse. Click here for more information.

Wine, Art, History & Fun - Visit Fleurieu Arthouse at Hardys Tintara McLaren Vale

Looking for things to do in McLaren Vale? You’ll be spoiled for choice with what’s on offer here on the site of Hardys Tintara on McLaren Vale’s Main Road.

This is the place Fleurieu Arthouse calls home. We’re based in an older building in the grounds of the winery - which is brimming with fascinating history.

A contemporary arts hub in the heart of the wine region of McLaren Vale, we comprise of a design store, gallery, artist’s studios, cafe, book store and event space.

The Arthouse is Managed by Anna Small and supported by the City of Onkaparinga. We provide working studios for up to 8 resident artists and visitors can tour these spaces in addition to visiting our design space and exhibitions.

Inside the exhibition gallery at Fleurieu Arthouse

On the doorstep of one of South Australia’s oldest wineries

Just across the lawns, separated only by a beautiful century old Moreton Bay Fig tree, is Hardys Tintara cellar door.

A visit to Hardys represents an opportunity to enjoy one of the many unique experiences offered by the winery, which is one of Australia’s oldest.

These include a variety of experiences such Tasting in the Dark, a sensory exploration of wine and Hardys Hidden Secrets, a tour which allows participants to discover the rich history of Thomas Hardy and his wine empire; you will be shown some of the fascinating historical buildings and little-known corners of this important historical site.

Clink at Tintara - McLaren Vale’s biggest beer garden

Clink is all about live music, great food and of course, drinks! A wide expanse of lawn and comfy seating ensures visitors can lay back, kick off their shoes and really relax whilst enjoying live music - and of course food and drinks!

Come for the day - enjoy a visit to Fleurieu Arthouse and then skip across the lawn to Hardys where Clink is situated.

Happy visitors enjoying the sunshine at Clink

Because of the great location, right on McLaren Vale historic Main Road, Clink also offers the ideal opportunity and seat to enjoy the Santos Tour Down Under.

The tour passes right through Main Road McLaren Vale 3 times and you can’t get closer than at Clink. You can reserve a table in advance and enjoy the excitement in style.

Book here.

Art classes and workshops for both adults and kids at Fleurieu Arthouse

If you have a yearning to try your own hand at some artistic pursuits, you’ll find what you need at the Arthouse. We’ve got a constantly changing timetable of artistic opportunities here - we hold regular workshops and classes in painting, jewellery and more.

Organic silver ring making with Shirley Wu is a popular option and you can book here to make one of her fabulous gem set rings from silver clay. In a truly magical process, Shirley will guide you in forming the band of your ring, selecting the stones and mounting them. Then she will fire the rings - which removes the clay aspect of the material leaving behind only the beautiful silver.

Organic silver rings created at Shirley’s workshops

Maybe you’re more of a painter? If so, you can attend one of our regular classes run by Sonja Maclean or maybe indulge in a one-off workshop such as those held by Chris Small.

Sonja’s classes are generally held during the week and you can contact her here.

Participants in one of Sonja Maclean’s workshops

Chris Small is holding an abstract painting workshop on Saturday, January 20th between 1.00pm and 4.00pm. The workshops promises to be a fun, informative exploration of technique and colour. Book here.

For children, there are regular lessons held by Claire Kennet in her studio here at the Arthouse. Claire is an experienced teacher and her classes are extremely popular. She teaches children between the ages of 6 and 16 and classes are small, grouped by age. Learn more and book here.

Still life studies with Claire Kennett

The Arthouse sells not only art, homewares, jewellery and ceramics but you can also walk through our purpose-built artist’s studios and meet the artists who work from them.

Enjoy a coffee at our coffee bar and take in the latest exhbition.

The entire Hardys site is brimming with entertainment of one sort or another. Follow us on Instagram for up-to-date news about workshops, classes and exhibitions.

Integrity - an Art Exhibition by The Artist's Voice Collective

The Artist’s Voice Collective at Fleurieu Arthouse

Integrity is an exhibition of works that celebrates the integrity of the individual artist in the creative process.

The Gardener - Bob Landt

Artists in this exhibition: Bob Landt, Terry MacDermot, Philip David, Rob Orchard,

David Braun, Hugh Adamson, Belinda Broughton, Erwin Janek & Jann Makepeace.

Opening event Saturday, 27 January 2024 2:00 pm
Closes Sunday 11 February 2024 3:00 pm

Southern Ocean - Terry MacDermot

About The Artist’s Voice Collective

The Artist’s Voice Collective has roots going back as far as 1967 when an artist from Hahndorf had an idea.

Helena Lyons wanted to celebrate the life of acclaimed South Australian artist Hans Heysen who had lived and worked in Hahndorf during the early part of the twentieth century. She decided that the perfect venue for this festival would be the old Hahndorf Academy once owned by artist Walter Wotzke and the site of Heysen’s last exhibition.

The idea came to fruition and with support from Mount Barker Council, the streets of Hahndorf were soon filled with artists and music. This was the foundation for what would eventually become The Heysen Festival and Heysen Art Prize.

It proved a wonderful way for artists to connect and in 1998 a group of like-minded artists who had been involved, formed The Artist’s Collective.

The collective held their first exhibition at Hillstowe Winery in Hahndorf that year and one member of the collective, Bob Landt, won the first inaugural Street Scape Prize with his watercolour Old Saw Mill Hahndorf.

The collective is made up of experienced artists working in a broad variety of styles and the members are vocal about how supportive the group is as a whole, meeting regularly to discuss their art and its practice as well as upcoming events and ideas.

Two Jetties and a Cairn - Bob Landt

Exhibition - Terry Johnson & Jojo Spook - Two Friends Two Dimensions

Jojo Spook and Terry Johnson have been friends and artistic collaborators  for many years.

Together they have created ‘Two Friends, Two Dimensions’ which is a whimsical and joyful exhibition of paintings and sculptures that celebrate the beauty of our natural world.

The two both live and work in Robe, South Australia where the local landscape serves as inspiration for their work.

We caught up with both artists and learned more about their artistic journeys, and what inspires and motivates them.

Terry

F.A. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your background as an artist?

T.J. Art has the incredible power to serve as a means of communication and empowerment. Through artistic expression, individuals can convey their thoughts, ideas, and emotions in a way that words often cannot capture. Living in Robe, a coastal paradise, surrounded by the beauty of nature, art has the opportunity to thrive and flourish. Here I have enjoyed many years teaching high school art, gallery ownership and working as an art curator, but most of all I find my solace in creating my own art.

F.A. What initially inspired you to pursue a career in art?

T.J. I have always wanted to be an artist. Throughout my life I have has many professions and somehow I found a link to art in every one. I found that the calling of art  was part of my making that was not to be ignored.

F.A. How would you describe your style and the themes you most commonly explore?

T.J. My style is expressionistic; it is colour and pattern based. I find my inspiration in everyday life, people, animals’ plants and the energy of nature. I have a joyful outlook on life and my goal through my art is to share that happiness with you the viewer. In short I create works that are unashamedly tossed in fantasy, humour and vibrant colour.

F.A. What does your creative process look like? ie how do you begin a new piece and what does that entail?

T.J. A white canvas is not my starting point. Before I begin to paint, I set myself the task of covering my canvas with stains of colour, patterns and enthusiastic mark making. I then set to paint scenes of everyday life embellished by my imagination. My work utilises the vibrancy of colour and subject matter to convey the joy of life. In participating in this exhibition I have further explored incorporating stencil marks, repeated patterns and various coloured inks into my completed work. My artistic goal is to speak to the viewer in colour the language of dreams.

 F.A. Who are your favourite artists/who are you most inspired by?

T.J My favourite historic artists are Gauguin, Matisse, Van Gough, Chagall, and  Cezanne. I also find inspiration in the free work of children that are uninfluenced by defined art and my many artistic friends and colleagues

F.A. What's the best part about being an artist/what is most fulfilling about your work

T.J. The best part of being an artist is entering into your own zone of creativity , finding endless ideas and working towards a finished piece of work that you most likely have no idea when it will each its conclusion.

The Outlet by Terry Johnson

Visit the Fleurieu Arthouse to see Two Friends Two Dimensions

Over the Christmas period we are open 7 days a week. Pop in and see us between 11.00am and 4.00pm - take in the exhibition, enjoy a coffee and pastry from our coffee bar and browse our resident artist’s studios.

You can also enjoy the design store where we stock the work of many local artists and artisans.

We have everything from clothing to fine jewellry and ceramics on display.

Situated in the lovely grounds of Hardys Tintara Winery, we’re right on McLaren Vale High Street and within easy access of everything the region has to offer.

Contact us at hello@fleurieuarthouse.com.au or call us on 08 7288 3095 if you have any questions.

The Studios at Fleurieu Arthouse

Jojo Spook and Terry Johnson

Jojo

F.A. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your background as an artist?

J.S. I grew up in an active creative household. My mum was a commercial artist and my Father an engineer. I was always building something, making my own fun and always eager to try something new. Mum taught me to paint, pottery and I started welding with dad when l was 9. I was always encouraged to be creative and always considered myself as an artist of some sought. Later on I started night classes at Tafe, I was 15. The year after I got into Monash University with a folio, a mixture of sculpture and painting completing a BA in Fine Art. Still thirsty for knowledge I attended Monash University and completed a BA of Craft, a Masters and finally a Dip Ed.

Detail from Just When you Thought you Were Safe by Jojo Spook

F.A. How would you describe your style and the themes you most commonly explore?

J.S. My partner is a pilot and we travel a lot in our small aeroplane that we can fit a double bed in, we call it the “flying caravan”. We travel to quite remote places and I enjoy the camping experience and collecting mementos from my trips away being metal scraps or going painting in the outback. My messages get out and see this amazing country, don’t get stuck in the same spot or box. Look at your environment and care for it, including our oceans.That’s where the use of nets and washed up ropes are used, creating awareness. Collecting metal symbolises time gone by, that piece holding a memory.

F.A. What does your creative process look like? ie how do you begin a new piece and what does that entail?

J.S. It could be metal, clay, found objects, painting, collage, textiles… just depends on the idea or what is unfolding. I don’t stick to a style, I don’t think I have one, I just keep reinventing and evolving. I get bored pretty easily and I push myself as I like to be challenged. I like my audience to connect with the work, have a laugh and have that discussion and be curious. I collect loads of things that I hold onto for that designated piece or assemblage. I am inspired by my experiences and surroundings and my work coincides with this. A typical week could be teaching at school, thinking about art, waking up in the night and resolving that issue or idea. I let problem solving take a big part, and I enjoy the challenge, planning a piece never goes well. My life is spontaneous so the work goes with it.

F.A. Who are your favourite artists/who are you most inspired by?

J.S. I discovered Frida Kahlo in 1986 in a book and have never looked back. I have followed herwork and exhibitions for years and admire and inspire her strength. Shes gutsy and never gave up despite her pain. She was an advocate for women and way ahead of her time.

F.A. What’s the best part about being an artist/what is most fulfilling about your work

J.S. In 2017 I hired a large Winnebago and drove 9000 km on my own for 6 weeks. During this time I painted and collected items, went to every art gallery I could and art studio. I also spent a week with the elders in QLD and Ghostnets Australia.

One of my largest pieces called “Kevin” the turtle was created from Ocean Rubbish in Ceduna with the elders and the community. He has since been on display at the National Indigenous Art fair in Sydney.

My last greatest achievement would be designing a program about ocean rubbish that I have delivered in schools. It’s a program about creating awareness of the harmful rubbish in the ocean and how it affects sea creatures. Students are encouraged to collect and create sea creatures for display.

What's on at the Arthouse over Christmas?

Workshops, Openings & Talks

December and January are always busy times at the Fleurieu Arthouse. Lots of visitors arrive looking to add to their Christmas shopping or to bring their visiting friends into a venue that’s full to brimming with gorgeous art, homewares and jewellery.

Over the festive period we’re open 7 days a week from 11.00am to 4.00pm to cater for all of your Christmas shopping needs. Even if you’re just looking for a beautiful space to wander for a few peaceful moments, perhaps enjoy a coffee and take in the art, we’re right here daily!

There’s a lot on our calendar at the moment so this is the perfect time to sum it all up and share some of the fantastic events we’ve got slated.

Organic Silver Ring Workshops with Shirley Wu

Shirley Wu is back again with her ever-popular organic silver ring workshops. This immersive workshop is suitable for beginners and old-hands alike.

You’ll learn how to craft a beautiful ring from silver clay. Shirley will bring a selection of heat-resistant stones which you can choose to add to your design.

She will take you through the entire process and then fire your creation ready for collection in a few days.

We currently have three scheduled workshops - get your tickets below.

Saturday December 9th 11.00am to 1.30pm - TICKETS

Saturday December 23rd 11.00am to 1.30pm - TICKETS

Sunday January 7th 2.00pm to 4.30pm - TICKETS

Artist Talk with the sister of Virginia Ryan

Fiona, the sister of artist Virginia Ryan who’s exhibition Bodies and Fictions can be seen until December 10th in Gallery 2 at the Arthouse is here to provide a deeper understanding of Virginia’s work.

Come by and hear more about Virginia’s fascinating story and gain an insight into her working process.

Saturday December 2nd 2.30pm - 3.30pm

Make your Own Fused Glass Christmas Ornament with Joy Levins

Fused glass Christmas star

Joy Levins’ work is ever-popular here at the Arthouse and now you can try your hand at the art of glass fusion.

Under the expert guidance of Joy, you will create a one-off piece of your own design. Glass is a fascinating medium and involves the process of joining colourful pieces of sheet glass together to create a unique design.

Once you have put your piece together, Joy will take them to be fired and return them to the Arthouse for collection before Christmas.

Sat, 16 Dec 2023 11:00am - 2:45pm - TICKETS

New Exhibition Opening - Two Friends & Two Dimensions by Jojo Spooks & Terry Johnson

Jojo Spooks and Terry Johnson’s new exhibition will open at Fleurieu Arthouse on Saturday December 16th at 2.00pm. Jojo and Terry, friends and collaborators for many years have created a whimsical and joyful exhibition of paintings and sculptures which celebrate the beauty of the natural world.

Join them - and us - for a glass of wine and be among the first to see this celebration of nature, art and friendship.

Finding Beauty in the Mess - with Chris Small - Abstract Art Workshop

Join Chris Small at Fleurieu Arthouse as she walks you through 2 Saturdays of a playful experiment of creating a mess of shapes and colour on canvas using different mediums.

On the first Saturday you will explore the natural space around the Fleurieu Arthouse to warm up, slow down and notice the surrounds and then return to the workshop space to play with paint.

The second Saturday will be blocking out to find the beautiful parts inside the mess - a bit like life is really! Focus on the process is a big part of Chris’ workshops and participants engage in learning to lose themselves in colour with Chris there to offer encouragement and guidance.

It's great if you have some painting experience, but if not its OK because this is a very relaxed and organic kind of workshop. The aim is to play, to experiment and to walk away feeling like you have taken a big deep breath and forgotten about any stress for a few hours.

Chris will provide the paints, the canvas, and some aprons, but make sure you wear clothes you don't mind getting messy. Leave those high heels at home! If it's hot bring a hat for outside activity. There will be water provided and you and you can purchase coffee and treats at the Fleurieu Arthouse Coffee Shop.

Saturday 13th & Saturday 20th January 1.00pm to 4.0pm - TICKETS

Learn more about Chris Small here.

Art the Year Round

There’s always something happening at the Arthouse - workshops, classes, openings and talks. Come and visit, or follow us on socials to keep up-to-date.

For children, we offer regular classes with resident artist Claire and for adults there are also regular painting classes with Sonja Maclean.

Locally Made, Sustainable Christmas Gifts at Fleurieu Arthouse

Christmas ceramics by Kate Crabb

It’s that time of year again - yes, summer is barely here but it’s time to think about Christmas gifts.

The great beauty of buying your gifts locally and by purchasing works which have been produced by local artists and craftspeople is that you’re contributing to efforts to work towards a more sustainable future in Australia.

Yes, it’s sometimes simpler to just order something from a website and await it’s arrival - but nothing beats the pleasure of holding a beautiful, one-off piece of art in your hands and taking the time to hand-pick the present which you’ll give to friends and loved-ones this year.

Native flower vase by Fleurieu Ceramics

Here at Fleurieu Arthouse we have many fantastic locally made ceramics including the vases above by Aldinga based ceramicist Sarah Shanahan of Fleurieu Ceramics.

Fleurieu Ceramic’s range is wide and there really is something for everyone.

The fun beachy mugs below make a lovely gift for a local or visitor.

Local town mugs by Fleurieu Ceramics

Handmade jewellery in McLaren Vale

Jewellery lovers definitely aren’t neglected here. We have a huge selection of gorgeous things, all made locally too.

The selection of jewellery on offer here at the Arthouse is broad. From silver, gold and natural pearl to stainless steel, resin and even paper, we stock a really unique collection.

Here are some of the highlights from our extensive selection of locally made jewellery.

Pink daisy drop earrings by Kitty Came Home

Kitty Came Home is a much-loved local business which is run by Katrina and Farley who inspired by Katrina’s Grandmother’s extensive collection of vintage fabrics, wanted to create a range of beautiful, bold accessories with a definite vintage feel.

Large disc earrings by Kitty Came Home

For those who like a classic look, Shirley Wu’s collection of silver and gold, handmade pieces are ideal. Shirley uses natural, freshwater pearls in many of her designs and in addition to this, she runs fun workshops where participants can create their own organic style rings in silver clay with gemstones.

Some of the pretty silver clay rings created by Shirley Wu’s students

A workshop makes a great gift; if you know of any budding jewellers, Shirley’s workshop might be the answer to your gift-giving problems!

Book tickets for Shirleys’ next workshop here. The workshop takes place on Saturday, 12 November 2022

11:00 am 1:00 pm

Silver and gold citrus blossom earrings by Anja Jagsch

Anja Jagsch’s range of gorgeous, botanical jewellery is individually handcrafted, often using the “lost wax” method of casting. This means that each piece is absolutely unique.

Books at Fleurieu Arthouse

We’ve recently had the pleasure of welcoming a newcomer into the Arthouse fold and it’s brought a lovely, literary touch to the gallery design space.

Catherine Charnock is the face behind Free Range Books, a new independent bookstore and she’s brought together an absolutely gorgeous collection of reading matter which is now on sale here at the gallery

Free Range Books at the Fleurieu Arthouse

There’s something for everything in this bookstore - from beautiful coffee table books on art, design and architecture, to inspiring recipe books and the very latest in Australian children’s books.

Pop in, lose yourself in one of our excellent cappuccinos and browse the collection.

Painting workshops at Fleurieu Arthouse

Painting, whether for relaxation or with a definite plan to improve a latent talent, is often seen as a something of a luxury pastime.

It takes time, expertise assistance and energy to learn to paint so what better as a gift for the frustrated artist in your life, than a workshop with the fabulous artist Lynn Lobo.

Lynn’s work is on display and for sale here at Fleurieu Arthouse and she herself describes her practice best.

“I am a painter with a focus on landscape and still life painting. While my paintings appear representational, my subject matter mysteriously makes itself known to me. A moment of light, a weather condition, the shape of one object next to another, colour combinations in particular lighted situations.”

Over 4 weeks, participants will meet up with Lynn at the Arthouse to work and learn alongside her.

She will share many tips for working specifically with gouache paint which is Lynn’s preferred medium, from how to get started to ways to preserve your work.

• You will gain confidence in using gouache and I will share with you the method I use to create images.

• You will gain an understanding of shapes and colour-tone relationships.

• In each class we will explore composition.

• We will focus on landscape painting and be working from photographs.

• Some drawing experience is beneficial.

This course is intended to encourage you to play while travelling, while on holidays, or if you just want time out for self nurture. The easy set up of gouache enables regular play.

DATES: 4 Saturday afternoons – 18th November – 9th December - book tickets here.

Homewares and gorgeous accessories

We love beautiful things here at the Arthouse and we’re so lucky to live in a region which inspires so many incredible artists and artisans in their work.

When you’re looking for that extra-special “something” to give to a special person, it’s easy to get lost in the swamp of mass produced gifts which are available online and in high streets.

But by purchasing a locally made gift, you’re not only supporting a small business, but you’re also ensuring your favourite person is receiving a one-off gift which is unlike any other as well as being sustainably produced.

Here’s a little peek at some of our most popular homewares and accessories -

Bags by Yellowbird

Yellowbird is an ethical micro-brand handcrafting a range of beautiful and completely unique clutch purses and shoulder bags.

Clutches and shoulder bags come with or without a stylish timber frame in either leather or carefully curated fabrics.

Metal wall art and garden sculptures by A Small Art Factory

Swallow Garden Stakes

Anna and Warren of A Small Art Factory produce a wide range of beautifully crafted metal sculptures and decorative pieces.

Bud Flower Garden Stake

You can see the full range here or pop into the Arthouse and see a selection in person. In addition to the smaller pieces featured above, there’s a stunning selection of larger, sculptural pieces and large wall peices

Whale Wall Sculpture

Kits and Gift Sets

Craft kits make a lovely gift for both adults and children and we stock a fun selection here at the Arthouse including My Little Print Studio’s lovely DIY cyanotype kits.

Cyanotype Kit

Cyanotype is a photographic printing process, where an emulsion is painted on paper or fabric and placed in the sun to aid exposure to produce a rich cyan-blue print.

This is a great little experiment to do at home with young children or for anyone who loves to be creative and the kits are very popular for birthday or Christmas presents.Clay Kits at the Arthouse

Clay Kits

Clay Kits offer a great entry-point into learning more about ceramics. The kits we stock include 1kg of quality ceramic clay, tools as well as hints and tips.

You can let your finished creations air-dry or take them to a local studio for firing. We recommend The Pug Mill.

Make an experience of your Christmas shopping

It doesn’t have to be a chore - come to McLaren Vale, have a wine at Hardy’s cellar door and spend some time browsing the Arthouse design space and exhibition. You can also enjoy a barista coffee and sweet treat from our coffee bar as well as get to know our resident artists as they work in their studios.

The Fleurieue Arthouse is open Thursday through to Monday from 11.00am to 4.00pm.

Get updates about workshops and events on our Instagram or Facebook.

For enquiries about group visits, please email us at hello@fleurieuarthouse.com.au

Union Street Sculptors at Fleurieu Arthouse

Shan Shui 2 - Renate Nisi

Totems serve as emblems for families or groups of people depicting sacred ideas or

relationships. They represent what is held dear and important.

In terms of our group of sculptors, each artist attaches importance to certain materials, their

meanings and their histories. Moreover, we all value the very act of making.

Creating from chosen materials has enabled every one of us to explore processes and invest

the made totem with meaning and aesthetic value.

A Balance - Julie-ann Rowe

The Union Street Sculptors are Victoria Beresin, Vanessa Hearnden, Renate Nisi, Dave Parker, Rayna Schofield, Maureen Swallow, Julie-ann Rowe.

The Union Street Sculptors are a diverse group of sculptors working together, as their name might suggest, from a studio on Union Street in Adelaide. Their current exhibition, Totem, opened at the Arthouse on 2nd September 2023.
We recently had a chat with Renate Nisi, the founder of the group, to learn more about this highly creative and innovative collective.

FA “How did the Union Street Sculptors come about?”

RN “Having a background in sculpture myself (bachelor and masters) and a love for material making, I started a weekly sculpture group at my Union Street Studios (where I also live). That was in 2012 or thereabouts.”

FA “What did those early meetings look like?”

RN “In the early years the group ran mostly in the form of workshops…limestone carving, life modelling in clay, casting in pewter, ferro cement etc.”

FA “How did things begin to evolve? Did you find things changed as the participants began to develop their practices more?”

RN “As the membership consolidated into regular long-term participants, the style of sessions took more the form of supported studio practice. People worked on their own projects with shared crit sessions. Exhibitions were mostly in the form of SALA shows st Union Street Studios.”

FA “And you began exhibiting outside of the studios at some point?”

RN This way of working together naturally lead us to producing collaborative works that we could exhibit at annual or biennial outdoor sculpture events.”

FA “What led to the group’s latest exhibition?”

RN “This year - after a number of collaborative years, people wanted to develop their personal practice more intensively for a while, but still exhibit together. So we decided to focus on a theme that would allow this. TOTEM - which is a traditional form of sculpture - seemed an ideal topic.”

Members of Union Street Sculptors

Union Street Sculptors Supporting Hutt Street

Bags for Hutt Street

An interesting aspect of Totem is the addition of over 60 little sculptural shopping bags. The bags were originally part of the Naracoorte work
Trolley Folly - a commentary on consumerism and today, they are on sale individually at Fleurieu Arthouse with all proceeds from their sale going straight to Hutt Street Centre. One member of the Union Street artists is a dedicated volunteer in the art room at Hutt Street, so the collective is keen to be part of this ongoing support.

A large number of the little bags sold immediately at the exhibition’s opening but there are still plenty available! If you’d like to help Hutt Street by purchasing a bag, you can visit the exhibition and buy one directly.

Totem is on at Fleurieu Arthouse until Sun, 1 Oct 2023 4:00 pm.

See the full catalogue here.

Winter Fire Festival - a Fun Event in McLaren Vale

Cosy up around one of the fabulous fire pits and listen to local musicians with a mulled wine

Here at the Fleurieu Arthouse we’ve just enjoyed the first of 4 planned Fire Festivals in conjunction with Hardys Wines.

The next dates are the 21st and 22nd of July so there’s plenty of time to get your tickets.

If you’re wondering what goes on at a fire festival it can be summed up in a few words - fire, wine, music, food and fun!

Fire Festival at Hardys Wine June 2023

Hardy’s have set up an amazing Bedouin tent outside on the lawn, festooned with lights and the glow of the fire pits, it’s a really atmospheric and fun venue.

With live music and a special dance class, tons of art, churros and even a paella bar there’s a lot to brighten up these dark winter nights!

The history of fire and midwinter

The first fire festival this year at Hardys was planned for the solstice - which is the period of time when the Earth’s poles are at their furthest tilt away from the sun- which means it’s the coldest and darkest it’s going to get!

Winter Solstice has long been a time to celebrate the shortest day of the year

This is the day of the year when there is the shortest period of daylight and the longest night. On these days. the sun sits very low in the sky and it feels about as wintery as it’s going to get.

Naturally, this also make it’s the perfect time of year for a fire festival.

The tradition of fire and the solstice has its roots in prehistory. It was always a significant time of year in many cultures and has always been marked by festivals and by ritual.

Visitors to one of this years’ fire festivals cosy-up in the tent

The ancient stones at Stonehenge, Newgrange and Cahokia Woodhenge were built to align perfectly with the sunrise or sunset on winter solstice.

What actually happened at these sites in terms of ritual and celebration has been lost to time but we can certainly imagine that there was wine involved.

The solstice this year has passed but there are still two more opportunities to come along and experience the joys of fire, wine, music and food in the beautiful grounds of The Arthouse and Tintara.

Book your tickets here.

SPROUT - an Exhibition by Anna Small and Warren Pickering

Ginko Leaf

Listen…
With faint dry sound,
Like steps of passing ghosts,
The leaves, frost-crisp’d, break from the trees
And fall.

Adelaide Crapsey’s ‘November Night’

Sprout, a new exhibition featuring the work of A Small Art Factory is set to open at Fleurieu Arthouse on Saturday July 1st and 2.00pm.

Sprout is a collaborative exhibition between Warren Pickering and Anna Small. The couple have worked together on their art practice for the last 15 years and their newest works reflect the growth of their style and form.

Plants are a form that Anna and Warren return to again and again in their explorations. 

Leaf

Anna’s love for trees and Warren’s fascination with leaves and their many incarnations are reflected in the pieces featured in Sprout. Skeletal leaves and silhouetted trees add a distinctly wintery air to many of the pieces in the exhibition, which when viewed together, seem to provoke a certain sort of calmness, evocative of an autumn walk through quiet lanes and crisp fields.

The intricacies and individuality of both leaves and tree forms are something which Anna and Warren have long studied and sought to recreate into wall art which is suitable for hanging both indoors and out.

Tree

Over the years, the pair have produced a huge variety of sculptural works in metal but mainly, they choose to work specifically in corten steel.

Corten steel is unique because it is resistant to rain snow, ice and fog.

But Anna and Warren don’t exclusively work with corten steel, they’ve also been known to work with copper, silver and other metals and often, the work is combined with carefully sourced timber pieces for the purpose of display.

You can read more about Anna Small, Warren Pickering and A Small Art Factory here.

Sprout opens on July 1st at 2.00pm at Fleurieu Arthouse, 202 Main Road McLaren Vale

Why People and Art Flourish Through Co-Working Spaces

Pre Covid, co-working spaces had been busily springing up across Australia. Older buildings and warehouses were regularly being requisitioned for freelancers of all disciplines.

Covid did put a brief dampener on things but you can’t keep a good entrepreneur down and it wasn’t long before artists, writers and designers were once more safely installed in studios and offices up and down the country.

Artist’s studios at Fleurieu Arthouse

These freelancers generally all have one thing in common - a deep need for the company of their peers.

Artists have always flocked together; forming groups in which they can not only feel part of a larger creative purpose but also receive wisdom and support from one another in what would otherwise be quite a lonely profession.

Painter Mary Margetts in her studio at Fleurieu Arthouse

After all, art is ultimately a solitary pursuit. Most creatives spend long hours alone working on their latest pieces. Without the company of others, there would be a lack of inspiration and support.

Here at Fleurieu Arthouse, our studio artists often turn to one another for guidance and support. They’re all to be found working in their studios during and after opening hours and the atmosphere in the studios may generally be one of quiet concentration, but there’s always the open-hearted social edge which comes of working in a public space.

Artists are always happy to chat to visitors who pass through, showing their work and discussing techniques and creative stories. A community of artists such as this is not only a positive thing for the artists themselves but a valuable resource for the larger community.

Fleurieu Arthouse offers a relaxing and inspiring environment for creative endeavours and classes

At Fleurieu Arthouse, we also offer spaces for one-off events such as workshops, classes and meetings. In addition to our artist’s studios, we also have large tables available within our design space and these are often used by visiting artists who wish to run classes or workshops in pottery, jewellery and self-development.

For creatives, it’s an ideal situation. Running workshops in a space designed for artists and for people who love art, is fulfilling and inspiring. For visitors to the space, the chance to soak up a creative atmosphere of productivity and creativity is fun and interesting.

Check our Workshops and Events page to learn more about what’s coming up in terms of workshops and classes at Fleurieu Arthouse. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, get in touch with the team and we’ll be happy to help.

A jewellery workshop at Fleurieu Arthouse

Providing artists with a home for their work and teaching practice

A number of our artists teach in addition to using their studios for their own art practice. Currently, we have 3 artists offering classes from their studios at varying times. The studios provide artists with the ideal venue from which to teach - as our artists have 24 hour access to the building, they’re not limited in when they can offer classes.

Visit our Art Classes page to learn more about classes or to sign up.

Without co-working spaces, artists would have a lonelier working life but equally, the public would miss out on so much of the wonderful creative processes which are shared in studios and galleries like Fleurieu Arthouse.

Paint and Sip at Fleurieu Arthouse

What is Paint and Sip?

You may have heard about paint and sip evenings but have questions! Maybe you’ve no idea what they’re about at all or perhaps you have some knowledge but want to learn more.

Well, look no further. We’re here to answer all your questions about paint and sip evenings in Adelaide.

Paint and sip evenings are pressure-free painting lessons with a glass or two of wine! Often, there are light snacks to be had and you have guidance from an experiejnced art teacher.

Usually, all participants work on the same subject matter which could be a portrait, still life, landscape or maybe an abstract piece. Having everyone work on the same piece is a fun way to create an atmosphere of camaraderie - you can share tips and progress with your fellow painters!

As you work, your teacher will walk you through the different stages of painting - sketching the design, underpainting and so on. Your painting will gradually come to life and by the end, you’ll be hooked!

Frida Kahlo paint and sip workshop

New, regular paint and sip sessions at Fleurieu Arthouse

We’re pleased to announce that we're going to be holding more regular paint and sip evenings here at Fleurieu Arthouse thanks to popular demand.

There’s a real interest in paint and sip for a growing number of people - and the way paint and sip is set up makes art much more accessible for everyone.

It’s a great way to begin painting again if you haven’t picked up a brush for a while. A professional artist will get you back in the swing of things in no time.

Even if you haven’t touched an easel since high school, it’s fine! Paint and sip in McLaren Vale is a no-pressure, fun learning environment.

Why is it called paint and sip?

It’s called paint and Sip or a reason - the idea is that you enjoy a glass or two of wine whilst you work. Getting all warm and cosy, losing yourself in the process of painting and spending time with others is a wonderful way to relax whilst improving your skills.

Here at Fleurieu Arthouse we’re lucky enough to be on the doorstep of Hardys Tintara Winery, so we have access to a wonderful array of wines.

Enjoying an evening of art with good wine and a delicious charcuterie board is a fantastic end of week treat.

Paint and sip as a gift - or a date!

What better gift for a loved-one than a fun evening together? Doing something completely different from your usual routine is great for your mental health and for friends and relatives, it’s the best possible way to spend time together.

Maybe you’re looking for a date night with a difference? Why not invite your date to spend a creative evening with you? The relaxed, creative atmosphere of a paint and sip night is probably just what you need to further your bond!

What’s included at a paint and sip evening?

Everything you need to create a gorgeous work of art. You will be seated at a large table with a tabletop easel to work from. You’ll also be provided with an apron and a canvas to paint.

All paints, brushes, canvases, aprons and easels are provided at Fleurieu Arthouse Paint and Sip Evenings

Paints are also provided and the most popular are generally acrylics - they’re a good choice because they’re easy to use and work for most painting styles. Brushes and so on are part of the deal - you really only need to bring yourself!

At Fleurieu Arthouse, we' offer wine by the glass for sale in addition to a selection of light snacks. - if you’d prefer to bring your own snacks, that’s cool with us too!

Book your tickets to our next paint and sip evening which is to be a graphic Frida Kahlo portrait! You can pre-order a charcuterie board at the same time!

Find us at 202 Main Road, McLaren Vale.

The Fleurieu Arthouse - How it all Began

Art galleries in Adelaide have always been an important part of society. Adelaide has a long history with art and The South Australian Society of Arts was founded as early as 1856. It wouldn’t become The Royal South Australian Society of Arts until 1935 when a Royal Charter was granted by King George V.

Considering the city itself was only founded in 1836, the fact that the people had established a society within 20 years is an indicator of just how important art was to those early Europeans who arrived in the region to make it their home.

The original society held a yearly exhibition in rooms in the South Australian Institute off Kintore Street. The earliest works on display were produced by students of the school of art which was attached to the society and within a few years, pieces were loaned by ST Gill and Col. William Light among other private collectors.

Still, it wasn’t until 1880 that the government awarded the society the sum of 2000 pounds in order to allow the acquisition of more diverse art.

Since those very early days, art galleries in Adelaide have continued to spring up - and not only the city centre, but in rural and suburban towns across S.A.

How did Fleurieu Arthouse begin?

Back in August of 2017, Anna Small and Warren Pickering, owners of A Small Art Factory, opened the doors of Fleurieu Arthouse for the first time.

The exterior of Fleurieu Arthouse featuring signage created by Anna Small and Warren Pickering

The idea of a gallery which also hosted resident artists had been germinating in the minds of the couple for some time and when the venue at Hardy’s Tintara, 202 Main Road in McLaren Vale became vacant, they knew it was the perfect location.

A large, old industrial process building which had originally been used to make and store cherry brandy amongst other things, the space came complete with massive, weathered old barrels and antique presses too large to move.

Undeterred, Anna and Warren simply made them part of the gallery’s display and Warren meticulously built the individual studios for the resident artists using timber supplied by the winery.

Anna reached out to local artists and soon, the space was filled with paintings, prints, jewellery, ceramics and sculpture - not to mention artists!

The studios are almost always filled to capacity and have been since day one. The Arthouse is a wonderful community in which artists may support one another and grow their businesses under the umbrella of the entity which Anna and Warren created more than half a decade ago.

Not “just” a gallery

The Arthouse is really four areas in one - there’s the design space, which is the first space visitors walk into upon arrival. That’s full to the brim with high-quality art in the form of original paintings and handmade prints, ceramics and glass, jewellery, textiles, sculpture and accessories. Then there’s the coffee bar tucked in a corner of the design space and serving fresh, barista-made coffee and locally baked cakes and pastries.

Then there’s the gallery itself which hosts a new exhibition each month and of course, the artist’s studios with 8 spaces for working artists.

The Arthouse plays host to many special events and openings as well as art classes - both regular and special one-off workshops.

Aiming to be an immersive experience for both visitors and residents alike, the Arthouse has a warm and welcoming atmosphere - people call in and stick around for far longer than they might linger in a traditional gallery.

Conceived as a space to offer the best in locally produced artworks whilst at the same time offering a safe space to creatives, the Arthouse continues to thrive against the odds - even Covid couldn’t dampen the spirits of the Arthouse and it closed for barely 2 weeks during the height of the pandemic.

What’s next?

Many plans are in the pipeline for the Arthouse including a Winter Festival and more Paint and Sip evenings - both with dates still to be confirmed.

If you’re interested in attending any of our classes, keep an eye on our Instagram or watch our events page for announcements.

The Arthouse is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and some Mondays - opening hours are 11.00am till 4.00pm

Please call 08 7288 3095 with any enquiries

South Australian Sculpture at Fleurieu Arthouse

Sculpture was always going to be a big part of the offerings at Fleurieu Arthouse. After all, owners Warren Pickering and Anna Small are the husband and wife duo behind A Small Art Factory - a South Australian business specialising in bespoke metal sculpture.

A Small Art Factory is well-known on the Fleurieu Peninsula and as it happens, much further beyond our little corner of Australia, because Anna and Warren regularly receive commissions from interstate.

The work produced by the pair can be seen everywhere from parks and schools to esplanades and private collections across the region and further afield.

Their distinctive style is unmistakable and always appealing.

The Goggles - Public Art at Port Noarlunga by Anna Small and Warren Pickering

Anna and Warren are kept very busy with their own work in addition to their commitment to running the Arthouse. They produce a range of metal pieces designed to adorn the home both inside and out as well as public pieces like The Goggles pictured above.

Bench seat - Mild steel, spotted gum hardwood

The benches which Anna and Warren produce are lacquered in Penatrol to ensure a long-lasting, weatherproof finish. All enquiries for benches or other works to A Small Art Factory or here, at the Arthouse.

For interiors and exteriors alike, Anna and Warren’s popular wall art series includes some of South Australia’s favourite flora such as the Banksia piece below. All enquiries as above.

Banksia - Mild steel by A Small Art Factory

WENDY LEE

The range at the Arthouse is ever-varied and in addition to metal sculpture, we also show some beautiful ceramic, glass and timber works. Ceramicist Wendy Lee’s series of sculptures of the female form are popular conversation-starters here in the design space.

Her fun and thought-provoking sculptures of unashamedly voluptuous women are rendered in a variety of poses and colours and they regularly catch the eyes and the hearts of our visitors.

A clutch of Wendy Lee’s lovely ceramic women

Wendy worked for many years with women who were experiencing difficult life situations and who were in need of support. She was and still is, inspired by the strength and resilience of those women. These sculptures are Wendy’s ode to them - their innate power captured in the curvaceous, yet solid figures.

JOY LEVINS GLASS

Of the Sea - Coral Bowl by Joy Levins

Joy Levins’ kiln fired glass can currently be seen in our exhibition “A Cornucopia of Art” in the main gallery and Joy also sells via our design space all year round. She produces delicate forms, sometimes whimsical and always beautiful.

Joy’s work transcends the limits of dimension thanks to the ethereal shadows which the pieces often cast when displayed in the correct light.

MELISSA DUNCAN

Melissa Duncan’s fun and intricate sculptures are currently on display in our main gallery as part of the exhibition A Cornucopia of Art. Pictured above is her piece “Well Loved” which is mixed media and can be purchased here at Fleurieu Arthouse, online or via telephone. View the catalogue here.

GEOFF BROMILOW

Sculptural form in Huon pine by Geoff Bromilow

As an artist and conservationist, Geoff Bromilow has a deep connection to timber as for many years he worked as an Arborist. His understanding of timber in its natural, fallen state is displayed in the sculptural forms which he carves by hand.

Geoff’s work is available here at the Arthouse and includes larger forms in addition to utility pieces such as utensils and boards.

Accessible, locally made sculpture for the home and garden

Sculpture adds something that’s hard to define to a space. Paintings on walls can entertain, challenge and educate as well as move, delight or sadden the viewer. Sculpture can do all of those things but also fills space in a more comprehensive fashion.

Adding life to a dead corner or a focal point to a garden, sculpture can throw architectural details into the spotlight, change an atmosphere and even the lighting of a space.

With more than a touch of magic, sculpture brings another element into your space, whether indoors or out and here at Fleurieu Arthouse you can find a wealth on display.

We are open Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday each week - find us a 202 Main Road, McLaren Vale.

New Year and New Faces at Fleurieu Arthouse

January is always a busy time at the Arthouse - many visitors from Adelaide and interstate ensure we’re kept busy. There are also our usual workshops and lessons taking place and the atmosphere is generally buzzing with creativity.

It’s also a great time to introduce artists new to the fold and we have a number to welcome in 2023!

Ian Burman

Clinton Landscape - Ian Burman

Ian Burman’s work arrived early this month and his paintings are a beautiful addition to our design space. Ian is a well-established, award-winning painter working mainly in acrylics. He finds inspiration in the landscapes around him, particularly in derelict rural properties.

Peppercorn Shadows Blinman - Ian Burman

Lesley Redgate

Landscapes are a popular theme for many of SA’s artists - partly due to the stunning natural features we’re lucky enough to live among.

Well-known local artist Lesley Redgate has also recently made a return to Fleurieu Arthouse and we couldn’t be happier - Lesley’s work is instantly recognisable thanks to her distinctive style which perfectly captures the beauty and energy of the Fleurieu Region.

Fan Bay, Second Valley - Lesley Redgate

Lesley, who works mainly in acrylics, watercolour and pen and ink also teaches a popular class from her studio in Willunga. Her cards and prints are now available at the Arthouse.

Evening Calm, Port Willunga - Lesley Redgate

Louise Vadasz

Another of our new faces is Louise Vadasz. Louise, who is a McLaren Vale native, produces vibrant still-life paintings in oil and heavy impasto. The bright, impressionistic pieces are very popular with our visitors and we also stock a selection of Louises’ greeting cards.

Louise Vadasz in her studio

Vase Flowers Louise Vadasz

some of the most beautiful Handmade pottery in adelaide can be found right here in mclaren vale

You may or may not be aware that we’re lucky enough to stock some of the most beautiful ceramics in Adelaide right here at Fleurieu Arthouse. Ceramics are one of those evergreen objects of beauty which fulfil a certain need in us all.

Whether it’s a comfortingly rustic mug for a hot drink or a hand carved platter suitable for a special occasion, one-off ceramic pieces appeal to most people.

We have some stunning pieces currently in stock and by a variety of local ceramicists. There are regular deliveries of new ceramics to the Arthouse and we’re always pleased to unbox them!

Alexandra Linden’s “Linden Haus” line of decorative and functional pieces encompasses a broad range of styles. Among the hand painted cups, platters and dishes are a selection of earthenware vases with gloriously thick glazes and almost architectural features like this one pictured below. Alex’s work tends to sell fast and since she joined us at the Arthouse, it has made it’s way into homes and collections across the globe.

Vases by Linden Haus

Platters and utensils by Linden Haus

Another of our lovely ceramic artists is Morgyn Stacy of Parrot and Pea Ceramics. Morgyn produces a range of beautiful ceramics, both functional and decorative. All of Parrot and Pea’s pieces are food safe - check out the tiny mushroom dishes! Perfect for sauces or seeds!

Mushroom dishes - Parrot and Pea Ceramics

Pink vase and botanical dish - Parrot and Pea Ceramics

Parrot and Pea’s range includes pocket-sized vases which are perfect for tiny posies of dried or fresh flowers; whimsical, pretty and just right for a special gift.

Clay Kits at Fleurieu Arthouse

We now stock boxed Clay Kits at the Arthouse. These are a great way to dip your toes into the wonderful world of ceramics or as a creative gift to a friend or loved-one. Each kit contains 1kg of quality ceramic clay, some simple wooden tools as well as tips and ideas.

The clay included has been chosen for its qualities - it’s easy to work with, strong and great for creating fine details. Fire it in a kiln or let it air-dry and paint it. Make a cup, a botanical print trinket dish, animals, hanging decorations or whatever you can dream up.

Clay Kits at Fleurieu Arthouse

Hand crafted glass at Fleurieu Arthouse

Talking of gifts, if you’re more of a glass person, we have a wide range of beautiful glassware here at the Arthouse.

Ever-popular Caslake and Pedler’s range of bowls, jugs, tumblers and more decorative pieces are a big hit with our visitors. The husband and wife team’s distinctive style is reminiscent of days spent beside the ocean, conjuring up images of sea-foam and sea-glass. Their quirky pieces include waves, jelly babies, rabbits and shark fins.

Glass Couds by Caslake and Pedler

Sorbet dishes by Caslake and Pedler

Iain Govan’s gorgeous leadlight hanging decorations and larger sculptural pieces are always popular too. Iain’s leadlight candle holders sometimes feature delicate antique glass which Iain sources and repurposes. His leaves, peace signs and pretty glass hanging hearts.

Leadlight leaves/hearts by Iain Govan

Joy Levins is another of our glass artists - her range includes framed hearts, earrings, cards and more.

The Arthouse is always brimming with treasures - pop in and lose some time browsing the diverse work of the Fleurieu region.

There’s also a coffee bar here at the Arthouse - we serve fresh toasted sandwiches daily, gluten free cakes and a range of cookies alongside our barista made coffees.

Find us at 202 Main Road, McLaren Vale.

To There and Back - Oil Paintings by Ken Bonner

A new perspective on an old land

A return to the Fleurieu Peninsula has inspired artist Ken Bonner afresh. After living for some time in Santa Fe, New Mexico, he and his wife Patricia followed their hearts and came home to Australia.

The move has enabled Ken to enjoy a new creative outlook and he is inspired by the local scenery, energy and images here in South Australia.

It’s usual for artists encountering a landscape afresh to experience a new burst of vigour and inspiration as the colours and landscapes surrounding them naturally impacts their work.

This is especially true for Ken who at the beginning of his career enjoyed a love affair with the landscapes and wildlife of South Africa; his passion for the land there was so strong that it kick-started his career.

After moving to Mexico in 2006 to be close to his future wife Patricia, Ken enjoyed the vivid scenery and lifestyle of La Paz, Baja Sur and it was during his time there that he began to paint seriously.

Ken produced many commissions during this period and also exhibited exclusively at Tres Virgenes Gallery in the centre of La Paz.

By 2012, Ken and Patricia were on the move again and this time settled in Santa Fe where again, inspired by the famously intriguing light there, Ken produced many large-scale pieces.

Elemental Dance - Dawn Greeting by Ken Bonner

Coming home again

Ken Bonner’s approach is distinct and unique, his style has been described as "impressionistic realism” and much of his work is on a large scale although some smaller canvases are included in this new exhibition.

Ken Bonner at work in his studio

With a process that’s largely instinctive, ken begins with a vision; he allows the concept of each piece to take on its own life, growing organically. The aim is to stimulate and please the eye through composition and colour impact. The vivid colours of his landscapes, seascapes and dreamlike abstracts are arresting and at the same time relaxing and thought-provoking.

Now back in South Australia, Ken Bonner’s reputation as an artist continues to grow and evolve; his exhibition will open at Fleurieu Arthouse on Saturday, January 14th at 2.00pm.

Find us at 202 Main Road, McLaren Vale.

Written by Lindsay Nightingale

December at Fleurieu Arthouse - a Feast for the Eyes and Food for the Soul

New artists joining the fold, festive workshops for children and locally produced gifts for all the family

Pansies - Louise Vadasz

Welcome to Louise Vadasz

As usual, December at Fleurieu Arthouse is a busy month - we’re often showcasing the work of artists who are new to the fold and this year we’re thrilled to introduce Louise Vadasz to the design space.

Louise’s bold and beautiful still life paintings have already created a stir since their arrival, with two immediately selling out within a day of their hanging! However, we still have a few more to offer including the gorgeous Pink Honeysuckle pictured below.

Louise’s style is heavy impasto with oil painted on transparent linen. The combination gives her work a richness and depth that does justice to the popular flowers she so often paints.

Pink Honeysuckle - Louise Vadasz

Christmas crafts for children with Claire Kennett

One of our resident artists is hosting 3 fun and festive workshops for children over the school holidays.

In this 1.5 hour workshop kids will work with Claire in her studio and learn how to roll and shape air dry clay to make their own Christmas decorations. They will use natural materials, textured stamps and lettering to personalise their decorations.

Clay pieces will be ready to take home on the day and will be fully dry and cured in just a few days. Ribbon or twine will be provided for hanging once they are dry. They can even model a small creature or make a little pinch bowl as an added extra.

Each participant will take home 6 - 8 pieces - perfect for Christmas gifts! Workshops will take place on

Monday December 19th at 10.30am

Tuesday December 20th at 10.30am

Wednesday December 21st at 10.30am

Book here or call the gallery on 87288 3095 if you have any questions.

Air dry clay decorations

Homewares for the festive season

We’re fortunate to play host to many talented artists and makers here at the Arthouse and among the many are My Little Print Studio, Kate Crabb and Parrot and Pea Ceramics.

Pictured above - daisy plate by Parrot and Pea Ceramics, Christmas tree decorations by Kate Crabb and Cyanotype tea towel by My Little Print Studio

We’re a centre for ceramics and amongst others, Kate Crabb and Parrot and Pea have a myriad of gorgeous handmade pieces to add to your Christmas table whilst My Little Print Studio stock a wide range of Cyanotype pieces.

Cyanotype Workshops at Fleurieu Arthouse

My Little Print Studio’s Cyanotype workshops are coming to the Arthouse in January and you can make your own Cyanotype prints under the guiding hand of Tracey. Participants will forage for botanicals in the beautiful grounds of the Arthouse before returning to the space to make their own prints.

Vintage style frames are included in the price of the workshop too so you’ll leave with a beautiful memento of your experience as well as new knowledge! Bring a sunhat, comfortable enclosed shoes and any botanicals you might want to include in your designs from your own garden.

Book your tickets for Thursday or Friday the 5th and 6th of January here.

Introducing Eliza Piro’s clothing range to Fleurieu Arthouse

Eliza Piro’s work has always been a popular feature at Fleurieu Arthouse; her range of prints, original paintings, soft furnishings and homewares regularly sell out but now we’re happy to say that we also stock her stylish, fun range of women’s clothing.

Featuring eminently wearable summer dresses in airy cottons, there’s a lovely variety of styles and cuts available right now at the Arthouse and our famous Tardis has magically transformed into a handy changing room!

Perfect for Christmas day lunch or for a day in town, these dresses are some of the most versatile we’ve ever come across.

Extended Christmas Opening Hours

Because we know it’s sometimes tricky to get shopping done on top of everything else at this time of year, we’ve extended our opening hours for the season. Check out our new hours below -

OPEN 7 DAYS UNTIL CHRISTMAS 11.00am to 4.00pm

CLOSED Christmas Day, Boxing Day and Proclamation Day

Following Christmas

OPEN 11.00am to 4.00pm

Wednesday 28th Dec

Thursday 29th Dec

Friday 30th Dec

Sat 31st Dec

CLOSED New Years Day and Monday 2nd January

OPEN 7 DAYS After New Year

Tuesday 3rd Jan to Monday 6th Jan

Christmas Gift guide - buying local & handmade in Adelaide

Why buy local?

Whether you love it or hate it, choosing and buying Christmas gifts is one of those recurring tasks that can’t be avoided.

Gifts for Mums, gifts for Dads - gifts for Mothers in Law and gifts for teens. Finding just the right thing can cause such angst.

It’s especially hard if the person for whom you’re buying is one of those people who seem to have everything already.

If you’re haunted by nightmarish visions of Christmas past - hellish shopping trips, staggering along your local high street, credit card clutched in hot little hand and the sheen of desperation on your brow, then consider keeping things local or at least, keeping things hand-made.

Shopping locally simplifies things - no huge queues, no long drives and of course, there’s the added bonus of the warm glow you get from supporting local artists!

Why support independent artists?

Many of our talented South Australian artists are not just practising creatives - they’re also hardworking and gifted business people. Selling art is a full-time job and the actual creation of the artworks is only part of the journey.

Each and every artist represented at Fleurieu Arthouse and elsewhere, is a small miracle of ingenuity, tenacity and practicality. From the creative skills needed to conceive of and produce the works they sell, to the marketing, the packaging and the care taken in engaging with their audience.

These are hugely talented people who are extremely dedicated to their work.

When you choose to support an independent artist, you’re acknowledging their talent and their grit. Supporting them by purchasing their work helps keep our high streets and our homes, interesting, appealing and exciting - after all, when it comes to art, home decor and fashion, who wants the same as everyone else?

Something for everyone at Fleurieu Arthouse

Artisan hubs like Fleurieu Arthouse have everything you need for Christmas - maybe not the turkey, but in terms of gifts, there’s literally something for everyone.

We stock a carefully curated selection of art, homewares, ceramics, jewellery, sculpture and even lighting.

Who wouldn’t covet one of Paperscapes’ beautiful lamps? Each piece is individually crafted from handmade recycled paper and natural elements, capturing the unmistakable colours and atmosphere of our region.

Paperscapes handcrafted paper lamp

Then there are prints - so many prints! Fleurieu Arthouse stocks the work of many of our best, S.A. artists including printmaker Sally Heinrich who’s fantastic homage to Julia Gillard, “Julia” regularly sells out as fast as we can restock.

Julia comes in the form of cards, tea towels and prints (framed and unframed) The work is a bright, celebratory reminder of the famous misogyny speech made by our first female Prime Minister.

Julia by Sally Heinrich

Prints are always a great Christmas gift option - especially if they include the beautiful flora and fauna of South Australia. Dana Kinter’s work is ever-popular and here at the Fleurieu Arthouse, we stock a number of beautiful giclée prints both framed and unframed by the celebrated South Australian artist.

Do get in touch if you have any enquiries about the work of Dana Kinter.

The Small Things Dana Kinter

Handmade home décor - made in Adelaide

There’s a wealth of beautiful, unusual and iconic home décor pieces here at Fleurieu Arthouse. A Small Art Factory produces a variety of metal wall art, sculpture and jewellery from their beachside studio in Moana.

The small Wall Bee pictured below is available here at Fleurieu Arthouse or direct from A Small Art Factory. There’s a lot more in stock in addition to the Wall Bee though…butterflies, dragonflies and much more. Visit us and check out the full range.

Wall Bee by A Small Art Factory

Original paintings and prints by Tony Wilson

Tony Wilson is a Kaurna/Ngarrindjeri/Narrunga/ Italian Australian artist based in Adelaide. Tony creates intricate and evocative artworks exploring themes of identity, collective resonance and connectedness. Tony’s work is much celebrated and collected here in Australia and has a growing international audience.

Enquiries welcome - visit us in person to see Tony’s work or get in touch via email or telephone.

Handmade jewellery - silver, gold, ceramic and more

If you’re looking for a special piece for a loved one, or maybe something particularly gorgeous for yourself just in time for the party season, call into Fleurieu Arthouse and check out the works of Anja Jagsch, Shirley Wu, Anna Small and Squink.

Anja Jagsch botanical jewellery

Anja Jagsch’s earrings, necklaces, bracelets and rings are miniature works of art inspired by the natural world.

Australian plants are the stars of the show, as using a process called “lost wax cast” Anja immortalises seeds, buds, leaves and flowers with the actual plant materials in question. Delicate, whimsical and elegant earrings, necklaces, bracelets and rings by Anja can all be found right here in McLaren Vale at Fleurieu Arthouse.

Buy a creative experience for your loved-ones this christmas

Right here in McLaren Vale, we have a broad selection of creative workshops on offer all year round. Since we’re on the subject of jewellery, why not book into one of Shirley Wu’s fantastic organic silver ring workshops and create a one-off, handmade silver ring for yourself or to gift to someone else? Or, if you know someone who’d love to learn the basics of jewellery making, book them in to one of Shirley’s workshops as a present?

There are plenty of dates coming up right through November and December - book your tickets here

Create a ring and set it with beautiful natural stones under the guiding hand of Shirley Wu, resident artist at Fleurieu Arthouse

make a fused glass christmas tree ornament with joy levins

Joy Levins is a brilliant glass artist who’s work can be seen here in the design space at Fleurieu Arthouse all year-round. This Christmas she’s hosting two fused glass Christmas tree ornament workshop.

Participants can make their very own glass Christmas tree - or more than one, in her fun, 45 minute workshops.

The workshop is suitable for adults and children over the age of 5 - under 8s must be accompanied.

Joy provides all the glass elements pre-cut so the participants both adults & children can have maximum fun adorning the trees with handmade beads, rod pieces & stringers.

This is a really festive activity to enjoy and you can always relax in our coffee bar with a barista coffee or hot chocolate and pastry afterwards! Ornaments will be kiln-fired by Joy and available for collection at the gallery the week after the workshop.

Book your tickets here.

Joy Levins handmade fused glass Christmas tree ornaments

Whether you come to the Fleurieu Arthouse to buy a special gift, to take part in a workshop, or just to enjoy a barista-made coffee and pastry whilst you bask in our sunshine filled gardens, you’ll find plenty to look at and to inspire you for the festive season.

The Fleurieu Arthouse is open Monday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday between 11.00am and 4.00pm daily. Find us in the grounds of Hardy’s Tintara McLaren Vale at 202 Main Road.

Written by Lindsay Nightingale

Nature Festival SA at The Fleurieu Arthouse

Fleurieu Arthouse & what’s on for Nature Festival SA 2022

Nature Festival SA is looking to be an exciting and varied celebration of the natural world and here at Fleurieu Arthouse, we’re pleased to be on-board and offering a variety of special, creative activities.

Nature Festival SA looks to throw the spotlight on nature as a whole and to help the public to engage with and enjoy it in as many forms as possible.

A relatively new festival in South Australia’s impressive list of established celebrations, Nature Festival SA was originally conceived in 2020 as a way of bringing together a collection of nature-based activities previously organised by Amongst It - a collective of individuals and organisations who care deeply about nature in SA.

In this, the third year of the official festival, there are over three hundred events and activities due to take place under the umbrella of Nature Festival SA at variety of locations and establishments.

From musical performances and tasting events, to guided walks and art tours, there’s something to suit all interests and all ages.

Here at Fleurieu Arthouse, we’re acutely aware of the important part that nature plays in our everyday lives.

Many of our resident artists are deeply inspired by and draw upon the natural world in their work. Our concern for the natural world and of course, our love for it too - led to us becoming involved in Nature Festival SA this year and we’re pleased to present a selection of events for the festival.

Ceramics with alex linden and draw, taste, tend with Wattle & Wonder at Fleurieu Arthouse for Nature Festival SA 2022

We are hosting four events for Nature Festival SA 2022 - the first, a workshop with ceramicist Alex Linden - make your own botanical ceramic pinch bowls under Alex’s guiding hand. Clear your diary for Saturday 15th October when the workshop will take place in the relaxing and inspiring atmosphere of the design space here at Fleurieu Arthouse.

Alex will show participants the correct techniques to form beautiful, organic ceramic bowls by hand. After decorating the creations by pressing fresh, local botanicals into the clay, Alex will spirit them away to be fired, ready for collection the following week.

Enjoy discovering the magical medium that is pottery, learn the first techniques necessary to mould, shape and bring to life a beautiful vessel which you can admire and use for years to come.

Get your tickets for Alex Linden’s botanical ceramic pinch bowl workshop here.

Alex Linden’s botanical pinch bowl workshop is at Fleurieu Arthouse on 15th October

Our next event is a Draw, Taste, Tend experience with proud Kaurna, Narungga, Kokatha woman, Quahli Newchurch and local nature guide, Hannah Jones and is scheduled for 18th October. Together, Quahli and Hannah present “an evening of creative inquiry, delicious edible native plant tastings and a culturally rich and inspiring experience.”

Upon arrival, participants will be served a Eucalyptus Martini and seated amongst an array of beautifully displayed native plants then Welcomed to Country by Quahli.

The evening will be spent studying a variety of native plants which are found along the Fleurieu Peninsula and as each plant is presented, participants will learn about their Kaurna significance and some of their cultural uses.

Tasting plates with dishes containing each plant, thoughtfully prepared by Quahli will be part of the experience and Hanna will guide the group through creatively recording the plants with pencils, ink pens and watercolours.

Tickets to the event on Saturday 18th October are available through Eventbrite.

Mini Mindfulness Retreat at Fleurieu Arthouse

The third event which we’re hosting is a Mini Mindfulness Retreat which will take place on Sunday 9th October 10.00am to 1.00pm and is presented by Sarah Wood from Happy Tiger Back Care.

This special retreat offers a welcome break from the chaos of day-to-day life during which participants can spend some peaceful time in the beautiful grounds of Hardy’s Tintara and Fleurieu Arthouse engaged in guided meditation, gentle movement and nature-based creativity topped off with a delicious morning tea.

Tickets are available on Eventbrite and you can book your spot today.

Sarah, of Happy Tiger Back Care is a qualified and experienced yoga teacher and practicing artist. She combines the two disciplines to bring people to a sense of wellness, calmness and happiness as she guides her participants through a gentle exploration of the environment and their own being.

POETRY OF THE EARTH AN ART EXHIBITION

Nature has inspired artists for centuries. During the Nature Festival we have invited 20 artists whose beautiful art works are inspired by nature.

Come along to the opening event and meet the artists with a glass of wine or visit on another day. The exhibition is free to visit and will be open until Sunday November 20th.

Grevillea Ned Kelly by Judy Morris

Sheltered Bay by Paula Josling

Banksia by Beryl Hunter

Whether you’re attending a workshop or not, a visit to the Fleurieu Arthouse is always a breath of fresh air. Our surroundings are peaceful, full of history and beautiful native plants and a walk around the grounds is always inspiring and relaxing.

The gallery is open between 11.00am and 4.00pm every day apart from Tuesday and Wednesday when we are closed.

The Fleurieu Arthouse features a design space full of locally-made art, jewellery, homewares, sculpture and ceramics in addition to the artist’s studios from which our resident creatives work, there’s also an exhibition space which showcases the work of a wide variety of artists on a regular basis.

Stop by, enjoy a coffee and a savoury or sweet pastry at our cosy coffee bar - take time out to relax and enjoy the art, the atmosphere and of course, the naturally beautiful surroundings which we are lucky enough to share with Hardys Tintara.

You can find us at 202 Main Road McLaren Vale in the grounds of Hardys Tintara.

Enquiries to hello@fleurieuarthouse.com.au

Tel. (08) 7288 3095