If you’re an art lover, there are plenty of galleries in and around Swan Hill that you can visit. There’s also a fabulous new light sculpture in nearby Robinvale and don’t forget the Silo Art Trail that links the towns of Sea Lake, Brim, Lascelles, Pathewollock, Rosebery, Rupanyup, and Sheep Hills.
Let’s explore some of the local art galleries in the region.
Swan Hill Regional Art Gallery
The Swan Hill Regional Art Gallery prides itself on displaying works of art from many local artists. It also hosts a range of events including art workshops. There’s a permanent exhibition of drawings, paintings, sculptures, and prints from 1970 especially focusing on the natural landscape of the region.
For a bit of history, the gallery was first established on a paddle steamer in 1966. The building of the current art gallery began in 1982 and the new gallery was officially opened in 1987. Many of the redgum timber was sourced locally and the mud-brick wall panels were locally crafted.
Current works of art on display include those by Ian Armstrong, Narelle Autio, Dean Bowen, Arthur Boyd, Sam Byrne, Ivor Cantrill, Andrew Sibley, John Santry, John Robinson, Clifton Pugh, Sir Sidney Nolan, and many others.
PaxART Gallery and Wellness Centre
This private art gallery at 359 River Road, Swan Hill is the home of local artist, Caroline Ellis. It features an impressive collection of fine artworks and photographs by the artist. Many of the artworks reflect images from the local area and other parts of Australia.
After spending a few years on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, Caroline returned to her home town and established her art gallery on her property. Apart from her own exhibitions at her gallery, Caroline is also involved in works commissioned by both community and school groups. You’ll also find a collection of her renowned murals dotted around regional Victoria.
Other local galleries and exhibitions
Fine Edge Art is a small studio at Lake Boga. It showcases a range of artworks, glassware, and ceramics. Unfortunately, the gallery is currently closed due to Covid, but you can keep an eye on their Facebook page for further updates.
Studio 75 is located at 75 Gray Street, Swan Hill. It’s owned and run by artist and art teacher, Merrilyn, who has been painting for the past 12 years. Before this, Merrilyn was a piano teacher and music specialist. She focuses on using mainly acrylics but also has a passion for pastels.
The Heartbeat of the Murray Laser Spectacular can be seen at the Riverside Theatre in the Pioneer Settlement. Check out the website for daily show times. It’s the first show of its kind in Australia to use the river as a natural backdrop and echoes a light show in Yangshuo, southwest China, that was first performed in 2004. The show tells the story of the Murray River from 30 million years ago to today.
Mallee Artists Swan Hill Inc.(MASH) is a group you might be interested in if you’re an artist yourself. The group was established by Marg Lewis along with other local artists back in 2001. It provides both support and encouragement to local artists and the members organise exhibitions and other community activities. You’ll also find numerous workshops you can attend.
Can we help with your Swan Hill home?
We’re full of great information about the many local art galleries and venues, so why not give us a call on 03 5032 2507. We’re here to help.
