Published on Thursday, 17 October 2024 at 1:39:32 PM

Shire of Mundaring is demonstrating its commitment to fostering arts, culture and community engagement by providing substantial funding for two key arts festivals. Nearly $46,000 in grant funding has been awarded to support this year’s Mundaring Hills Open Studios and the Darlington Arts Festival, enabling the successful delivery and promotion of these events across October and November.

Mundaring Hills Open Studios ‘Art in the Hills’ showcase is set to launch this Saturday, 19 October, with a record 75 artists showcasing their work across 37 open studios from Swan View and Greenmount to Chidlow and Gidgegannup. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of artistic expressions, including landscape painting, sculpture, ceramics, jewellery, abstract works, and textiles. The exhibition runs for a week, concluding on Sunday 27 October.

The Darlington Arts Festival, a longstanding tradition dating back to the 1950s, will take place on Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 November at Darlington Village. This free event promises a diverse program of exhibitions, performances, workshops and family friendly entertainment, along with a variety of food stalls.

These events are integral to the Shire’s vibrant arts scene, showcasing local talent and fostering tourism and economic growth. The funding aligns with the Shire’s Council Plan 2024-34, which aims to build sustainable communities and strengthen the local identity through arts and cultural initiatives.

Shire of Mundaring has long been a hub for creativity with its inspirational natural environment, rare native wildlife and breathtaking sunset views overlooking the Perth metropolitan area. The arts festivals provide visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in the hills experience on a day trip or overnight stay, with many local accommodation options on offer just 40 minutes from the Perth CBD.

Shire President Paige McNeil highlighted the value of these events bring to the community and local economy.

‘’Mundaring Hills Open Studios and the Darlington Arts Festival are annual signature events enjoyed right here in the Heart of the Perth Hills,” she said.

“An abundance of artists and artisans call the Shire of Mundaring home and these events offer an incredible opportunity to showcase our local talent, making the area a notable arts and cultural destination.”

“By supporting community driven events such as these, and investing in arts and cultural initiatives, we continue to strengthen community connection and offer a unique experience for visitors to the Hills.”

For further information on both upcoming events visit:

Mundaring Hills Open Studios:  Mundaring Hills Open Studios | Mundaring | Perth Hills
Darlington Arts Festival: Darlington Arts Festival | Free Community Festival

Image: Cr Zlatnik, Cr Mehta, Silvana Ferrario, Liz Berry and President Paige McNeil

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