Arts and Crafts in the Hawkesbury

If you’re looking to get arty in Sydney there are plenty of places to do it, from the biggies like the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Art Gallery of New South Wales to smaller spaces like the always cool Blender Gallery and Pine Street Creative Arts Centre. But if you’d rather get off the beaten track, you need to travel down the Hawkesbury Arts Artisans and Crafters Trail.

The Hawkesbury offers a gorgeous range of galleries, housed in historic buildings set in stunning rural surrounds. You’ll find them as far as Vineyard in the south, St Albans in the north, and Bowen Mountain in the west. Some have cafes for a quick bite, while other run visitors tours to give you the greatest insights into the art works.

Many of the artisan’s studios are attached to their galleries, and you can often sneak a peek at these at specific times or by appointment. Some of the artists also teach in their studios, offering you a real insight into the creative process and allowing you to take home your own masterpieces. And there’s nothing like buying art direct from the gallery, after speaking with the artist about your prized piece’s inspiration.

Visit the Hawkesbury Arts Artisans and Crafters Trail website to learn more about the treasure trove of creativity hidden in this beautiful part of Sydney. Open weekends are scheduled regularly, with the next taking place on August 16 and 17. But if you can’t wait that long, many of the galleries are also open at regular times or by appointment.

Image source: Jorge Vicente @ Stock.xchng