Margaret River Region Open Studios: 10 must see artists

Working rhythmically in her studio nestled in Nirvana Estate, Suzy French offers an immersive visitor experience that channels the vastness of Australian landscapes into captivating artwork. Marvel at Suzy’s intense creativity as she effortlessly dances between the more traditional use of oil paints and a free-flowing abstracted view of the natural world on shimmering, aluminium panels.

Her paintings, often inspired by aerial views and informed by decades spent in the Kimberley region, glow with depth and emotion. Her glossy works range from large-scale panels to hand painted pendants, making it easy to pick up the perfect memento, whatever the size.  

Ian Daniell’s artwork is truly unmissable. His monumental ocean‑themed works are an ode to encounters in the wild and a celebration of marine life. You may have already seen images of his life size paintings of whale sharks, orca fins or humpback tails rendered in high sheen and vibrant colour, but nothing beats a trip to his Cowaramup studio to see the power of these pieces in real life!

Pop in during Open Studios and witness the creation of these awe‑inspiring pieces that capture marine creatures on an enthralling visual scale. Watch his dynamic technique as he creates bold compositions and take your favourite home as a limited-edition fine art print.  

The youngest trailblazer on the Open Studios lineup, Jacob Lyon is quickly building a name for himself as an innovative potter with an original style. Jacob’s workshop is a one man production studio. He throws everything by hand, and makes his own glazes, using shapes and colours influenced by the South West landscape. Pick up a forest green travel mug, inspired by the Boranup Karri Forest, a sea blue incense holder, inspired by the waves at Contos Beach, or a sandy yellow teapot, inspired by the beach at Meelup.

If you have time, we recommend doing one of Jacob’s pottery workshops. Intimate (six people max) and designed to give you lasting skills and confidence on the wheel, these sessions are ever popular for a reason!

A master jeweller of the South West, John Miller has been handcrafting celebrated, original jewellery pieces for 52 years. His studio, John Miller Design, is a treasure trove of intricately detailed gold and silver creations that reflect Western Australia’s rugged landscapes, native flora, fauna, and oceanic themes. His iconic work has amassed a loyal following and his colourful career makes him one of the most experienced and beloved jewellery makers in Australia. 

John designs everything from signature sculptural rings and bracelets to bespoke commissions—all stamped with his distinctive, organic style. A visit to his workshop over the two weeks of Open Studios offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at traditional jewellery-making techniques, where metalwork meets storytelling in every piece. 

A fresh face on the Open Studios trail in 2025, Stephanie Stokes  invites you into her pottery studio (established just this year) for the first time. Her hand thrown stonework is both unique and functional and her studio and shop front is right in the heart of Dunsborough town.

It’s the perfect place to slow down, have a friendly chat and find your new favourite mug. When you’re done, take your new mug on a maiden voyage for barista made coffee at the locals go-to, Merchant and Maker.

Just round the corner from Stephanie Stokes, you’ll find Trish Waters’ Dunsborough art gallery. Trish is recognized for expressive and emotive work, using a variety of media to explore landscape and texture. Walk into her studio and feel the vibrant yet serene energy radiating from her space.

Her artworks are a meditative reflection of her environment, meaning her studio provides both a visual and sensory journey into the heart of the South West spirit. We recommend picking up one of her shibori silk scarfs – dyed in ocean and sunset colours to replicate the effect of light through water – to take away with you as a beautiful piece of wearable art. 

Boasting over 35 years of traditional wheel‑throwing mastery, Myles Happ presents a rich catalogue of stoneware at his Commonage Road studio. This year you can expect to see a range of new works inspired by a recent trip overseas – from soft, earthy tones to more vibrant, contrasting glazing techniques. 

Sasha Boundy, the creative force behind The Mermaid’s Cave & Café, specialises in crafting whimsical and lifelike pottery animals full of charm and personality. Inspired by the natural beauty of the Margaret River Region and the spirit of wildlife, she lovingly hand carves each piece to ensure it’s individual character.

Her pieces are located inside her Busselton studio and cafe – a fascinating space that’s tactile, colourful and fun for the whole family. While you’re there, immerse yourself in the mesmerising world of the mermaid, curated by Sasha and adorned with an extraordinary seashell collection and aquarium. 

A self-taught woodworker, Tammy Scott crafts bespoke homewares, furniture and jewellery using predominataly reclaimed native timbers such as Jarrah, Tuart and Sheoak. She views milling a log like unwrapping a present – discovering what amazing grain patterns and colours lie beneath.

This process dictates what the furniture or artwork will become, as Tammy guides her materials into spectacular designs, exuding warmth and orginality. Her business, Heartwood Timber Designs, is a three-generation family affair, with her son, husband and parents all creating stunning timber pieces too.  

A lifelong interest in birds, combined with an inherent love of creating, eventually led Chris Spiker  to becoming a dedicated wildlife artist. Chris’ meticulously framed watercolour portraits – showcasing mostly Western Australian native birds, plants, flowers and mammals – immediately catch your eye.

The delicate features of a Splendid Fairy Wren or a Red-tailed Black Cockatoo are masterfully painted in vivid watercolour. Surrounding Chris’s Margaret River studio, you’ll often see native flora and native birds, and September is peak wildflower season, meaning you may be able to spot one of these beauties in real life!