IN PICTURES: Celebrating the opening of the 20th Southern Art & Craft Trail

The opening of the 20th edition of the popular Southern Art & Craft Trail attracted more than 50 people at Albany Town Hall on Saturday. The trail will begin on Saturday, September 23, and will run until October 8, featuring 74 exhibitions and open studios. ArtSouthWA was formed in 2000 by a committed team led by Angus McKenzie, experiencing a halt due to COVID in 2020. Attendees ranged from artists to board members and sponsors, who partook in the nibbles and drinks on offer. Menang Noongar elder Lester Coyne conducted a welcome to country and Albany mayor Dennis Wellington congratulated the trail on its longevity and contribution it has brought the Great Southern region. Denmark artist June Smith was recognised and awarded for her commitment and participation to the trail for the last 17 years. Ms Smith is a self-taught artist taking inspiration and following the traditional teaching of old masters of European art. The trail was previously awarded $20,000 by the City of Albany, Regional Arts WA and Tourism WA. The annual event is an opportunity to promote and showcase the work of Great Southern artists, drawing tourists and the local community alike.