Nine artists’ studios in Hill End will be open to the public on Sunday, October 5, showing how the village’s creative residents sculpt, paint, photograph, create ceramics or print with vintage presses.
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Once a bustling gold rush centre, Hill End was largely abandoned when artists Donald Friend and Russell Drysdale came into town in 1947.
The town inspired the duo to create iconic works of Australian art and over the ensuing decades hosted visits from artists ranging from Margaret Olley to Brett Whiteley.
Hill End today has a strong population of artists, who invite everyone to see their way of life and working process this long weekend.
Sculpture will be displayed in the garden of Hill End’s historic Craigmoor House, and an exhibition of work by the artists of Hill End will open at the Jean Bellette Gallery at 4pm.
There are also performances and attractions throughout the day, with UTS Design History professor Peter McNeil giving a free talk in the Presbyterian Church on ‘The Beauty Of The Everyday: Donald Friend in Hill End’ from 11.45 to 12.30, and a string quartet playing in Lyle Park in the centre of town from 12.30 to 1.30.
Visitors are encouraged to bring a picnic and enjoy lunch under the spring blossoms in the park while the musicians play.
The opening of ‘From The Studio 2014’, the group exhibition of all Hill End Artists at the Jean Bellette Gallery, will conclude the day at 4pm with complimentary wine and nibbles.
The day is a fundraiser for the Gulgong Arts Council, which is restoring the Hill End Catholic Church as a contemporary art space, through many hours of volunteer labour assisted by grants and events such as the open day.
Studios will be open from 10am to 3.30pm.
Day passes will be $35 for adults and $25 concession, with free entry for children under 12. Tickets will be available from 9am at the Royal Hall beside The Royal Hotel.
