6 ways to discover the Margaret River Region on an art trail adventure

Now in its 11^th year, Margaret River Region Open Studios lets us step inside private studios and meet 144 local artists. Among them is a celebrated jeweller, a life-size-ocean artist, a sculptor of seafarers and a big wave surf photographer.

Try an art trail adventure to meet some incredible locals and a new perspective on the gentle way of life between forest, coast and vines.

Rebel of the jewellery-making scene, John Miller has forged his own path, stamping stories of wildflowers, birdlife and oceanic creatures onto his unique gold and silver jewellery. Usually he’s head-down in the workshop, poring over a new design or polishing a finished piece – but for two weeks a year, John invites you into his creative space.

Georgia Zoric’s sculpts sailors, fishermen and all-round adventurers in speckled clay, and has amassed a cult following for her cigarette-smoking, chunky-knit-wearing characters. Jess McKiernan captures South West scenes and a sense of nostalgia in her screen prints – faded weatherboard shacks, still-life gum nuts and glorious beachscapes. Find them at Shelter Brewing Co.

Open Studios has four incredible Aboriginal artists taking part this year, including Kim Kiosses who is participating for the first time. “My paintings reflect on my life, experiences, family history, environment, culture and my heritage as a Noongar, Banyjima and Nyiyaparli woman.” Kim, who also exhibits at Yallingup Aboriginal Art, is looking forward to conversations sparked by art, “People are interested in my perspective, personal expression and my family history.”

Fascinated by orcas, jellyfish, whiprays and whales, every creature Ian Daniell paints, he paints in life-size scale and colours that pop. Discover the fluid forms and mesmerising colour of jellyfish in his latest life-size collection, and check out scaled-down prints, small enough to fit any wall.

Is it printmaking, painting, or something else altogether? Emily Jackson gathers inspiration from the bushland around the Wadandi Track, bringing birds, zig-zagged banksias and bright spring colour into her digital art. Get inspired chatting to the graphic designer-come-artist, and you’ll find yourself looking for her motifs next time you’re bushwalking.

Photographer Russell Ord is best known for his intense big-wave surf and ocean photography, and his willingness to take risks in pursuit of the perfect shot. Meet the man himself in his sleek new Russell Ord Gallery space just off Caves Road, pore over his latest works and learn how he emerges from some of the Indian Ocean’s gnarliest breaks.

Margaret River Region Open Studios is free to attend and runs 7^th to 22^nd September across the region. Pick up an event guide or visit Meet the Artists to plan your journey.