Fleurieu Arthouse Studio Spotlight
Whether it’s in a shed at the bottom of a garden, an attic, or even the corner of a kitchen, it is in the artist’s studio where many great artists conceive and create the bulk of their work. Historically, artists have always flocked together to form creative communities and support systems of their own - the studios at Fleurieu Arthouse stay true to this long-held tradition with resident artists and artisans working and supporting one another daily, each in their own purpose built studio.
Traditionally, the artist’s studio is a place of learning, a place for experimentation and a place where artists can find the peace they need to grow and develop.
Ceramicist and Painter Wendy Lee in her Fleurieu Arthouse studio
At Fleurieu Arthouse, the studios are also a place of collaboration. Creating and networking from within their studios, our artists are on a continual journey as they develop their practices.
We are fortunate to be able to host a varied crowd of talented and innovative local artists at Fleurieu Arthouse with up to ten working daily in the purpose-built studios adjacent to our design store and exhibition space.
The entrance to the studios at Fleurieu Arthouse
Inspiration and collaboration at Fleurieu Arthouse
Our resident artists are an eclectic mix - from painters and jewellers to those specialising in leather, glass and mixed media, there’s a highly creative and talented group here. Members of the public are welcome to stroll through the studios, to view the works in progress and chat to the artists as they work.
The sense of community here is clear and all of the artists seem to agree that they appreciate and value the sense of community which comes from being part of a group of artists working together under one roof.
The studios during a rare quiet, early morning moment
The fruits of these close working relationships are quite often translated into commissions and other special projects.
Three of our studio artists Brooke Walker, Sonja Maclean and Sarah Wood recently collaborated on an installation for Clink at Tintara in the grounds of Hardy’s Tintara, close to the McLaren Vale Hotel.
Studio artist Sarah Wood works on a commission at Hardys Tintara
The finished piece can be seen today situated close to the outdoor seating area of the McLaren Vale Hotel within Hardy’s grounds. It adds a fun, interactive element to the space and serves to bring together the brands of Hardys and Clink as they celebrate a new partnership.
Poles - at Hardy’s Tintara
Meet and work with our studio artists
Visitors to Fleurieu Arthouse can take a walk through our studios, view the art within them and enjoy a glimpse of how working artists manage their day-to-day lives.
Many of the artists who work from the studios at Fleurieu Arthouse also utilise their space for classes and workshops which are open to the public. If you’re interested in developing your artistic skills or those of your child, there’s a regular timetable of workshops and classes held at the venue.
Sonja Maclean - pictured here in her studio working on her latest piece, “The Fast Supper”
“It’s about supporting one another in a volatile industry - we help one another move forward.”
Sonja Maclean
Among the studio artists offering classes is painter Sonja Maclean.
Sonja runs regular, Art.Wine.Food evenings where participants can enjoy a glass of wine and some nibbles as they hone their skills in painting a variety of native flowers or birds. Sonja also facilitates private lessons and offers her expertise for corporate events.
Another studio artist soon to branch out into workshops and classes for both children and adults is the award-winning designer and artist Shirley Wu. Shirley’s practice crosses contemporary jewellery and sculptural objects, through the use of glass, silicone, stone, ceramic, metal and other materials and through through lampworking, moulding, casting and metalsmithing techniques.
Shirley’s beautiful sculptural work and jewellery can be seen in her studio and in our design store.
“It’s a community, we share our successes and support one another. It’s great to have other artists nearby and to seek advice on career growth.”
Jianzhen Wu (Shirley)
Jianzhen Wu (Shirley) Artist/Designer pictured here in her studio
A regular parade of children can be seen attending mixed media artist Claire Kennet’s classes which are run during term time in her studio. Claire also offers private lessons. Find out more here.
Claire Kennett’s studio at Fleurieu Arthouse
Art has never been a fully solo activity; it’s long been something which brings people together and in this way it’s a great equaliser, bringing together people from all walks of life.
Sharing a love of art, a never ending curiosity about life and the desire to create thought-provoking, uplifting work is what drives most artists and usually, most art-lovers too.
To learn more about events and classes at Fleurieu Arthouse follow us on Instagram and Facebook.
Participants in a jewellery workshop with Jianzhen Wu (Shirley)
Written by Lindsay Nightingale