Get Ready, You're In For A Creative Treat

Published on 22 March 2022

Colac Otway Arts Trail organisers invite you to join the trail, and visit artists working in their studios, enjoy group displays and exhibitions, street theatre and creative workshops happening in Colac, Birregurra, Apollo Bay, and towns throughout the Otways during April.

Kicking off on April 9 and 10 in Colac with the Art Expo at COPACC the event includes art displays, workshops and demonstrations, and performances by local musicians - The Angus Duo, Connor Knight, and Musik DJour.

Or head to the Lake Colac foreshore with the family to enjoy the magical giant puppet street-theatre performance, Elevate – Walking with Giants presented by the Wild Honey performing arts group on Saturday April 9 between 3-5pm, bring a picnic and enjoy the treasure hunt before the show.

People can also discover their own creative talent by taking part in a series of workshops throughout April including, drawing, photography, writing, printmaking, weaving, stilt walking, puppetry, and storytelling. To register check out the full workshop details on the trail’s website.

Follow the trail Easter weekend, April 16 and 17, to the 45th Apollo Bay Art Show and artist studios. Or visit Birregurra, Barongarook, Barwon Downs, Forrest Beech, Forest, and Gellibrand and check out the exhibitions and open studios.

Or wander through Colac’s Botanical Gardens and discover hidden art treasure as part of the Small Art Treasures exhibition from 13-18 April.

Colac Otway Arts Trail’s Lynne Richardson said local artists were excited to showcase their work and she encouraged people to get involved and register for one of the many different creative works available.

She said if people preferred doing something hands on including drawing, printing or puppetry then book one of the many workshops and activities happening as part of the trail.

“The arts trail has exhibitions and displays, artist opening their studios, music, workshops, street theatre, its great day out. It’s a perfect way to enjoy what the region has to offer. Stay in one of many Otway’s boutique accommodation venues or take a day trip and visit local cafes and restaurants, wineries, galleries and exhibitions. And don’t forget to check in to win some beautiful treasures made by local artists,” she said.

2022 Colac Arts Trail dates and locations

9 and 10 April -The Art Expo at COPACC

9 April Walking with Giants Lake Colac foreshore

13 to 18 April Hidden Small Art Treasures Colac Botanic Gardens

16 and 17 April Easter Apollo Bay, including the 45th Apollo Bay Art Show, Beech Forrest, Barwon Downs, Birregurra, Colac, Forrest, Gellibrand. Click on venues for more details.

Register for one of a series of creative workshops Visit the website www.colacotwayartstrail.com for full details or to download the map. Or follow the trails Facebook page or find them on Instagram @colacotwayartstrail

Colac Otway Arts Trail sponsors include Colac Otway Shire Council, Regional Arts Victoria, Connected Communities Acconia, Otway Print and Frame, Ziibo and ALC.

For more information contact Lynne Richardson on 0400 922 219 or colacotwayartstrail@gmail.com

Photo Credit: The Colac Herald

Pictured from left to right: Matt, Victor, Charlie and Alex.