Discover the wild art in Walcha
#wildart #wildwalcha
Walcha has a reputation as one of the most art-friendly towns in Australia.
With a thriving arts community Walcha has been able to create a unique Open Air Gallery of Sculptures and Artworks, a must see for any artist or art lover. The locals have embraced their artistic reputation, now boasting one public artwork for every 60 of its citizens. According to one of Australia’s best known art critics, ‘there can be no town in Australia that is so art friendly’.
A number of significant Australian artists, were born, bred and still reside in the Walcha area, and others have been enticed to move here due to the presence of the vibrant arts community. To see a list of Walcha artists and their websites just scroll further down this page.
Come and experience the art in Walcha for yourself!
The concept behind the Open Air Gallery
At the suggestion of the Walcha Arts Council, Walcha Council adopted the concept of developing Walcha’s Open Air Gallery. The decision was taken for a number of reasons, not least of all to develop a certain distinctiveness, and claim Walcha’s unique ‘thumb-print’ as a culturally rich and artistic hub.
This ever-growing public gallery is now highly regarded and renowned among the global art community, as well as being immensely enjoyed by proud locals and bewildered visitors. The Open Air Gallery adds an original dimension to the streetscape of Walcha.
The Open Air Gallery consists of over 50 pieces of art, mostly sculptural. The works are dotted around the town with contributing artists coming from local, national and international origins. Many of the works have been created using local timbers, numerous pieces forming interesting looking seats for taking in the ambiance of the beautiful vistas around town.
Walcha Gallery of Art
The Walcha Gallery of Art is located on the main street, and showcases various artworks by local, regional and international artists, with sculptures, prints and jewellery also on display. Additionally, the gallery hosts various changing exhibitions, which are as exciting as they are varied.
15N Derby Street, Walcha
www.walchagallery.com.au
Visitor Information Centre
An indoor photographic experience of the Open Air Gallery.
29W Fitzroy Street, Walcha
Local Walcha Artists include ...
Stephen King … Artist / Sculptor
Angus Nivison … Artist / Painter
James Rogers … Artist / Sculptor
Ross Laurie … Artist
Myfanwy Gullifer … Artist / Sculptor
Julia Griffin … Artist
Gemma King … Artist
Paula Jenkins … Artist
Kate Durack … Artist / Illustrator
Linda Lockyer … Artist
Alec Gill … Artist / Sculptor
Brad Keable … Artist / Sculptor
PROMINENT LOCAL AUTHOR
John Heffernan