Our August News
Hello, Spring (We Missed You!) 🌱
Those tiny leaf buds are finally waking up – a sure sign that Spring is knocking on the door! After what felt like an extra cold and soggy winter (though don’t we say that every year?), we’re more than ready for some sunshine and colour.
And speaking of colour...
The Studio's Blue Period (in the Best Way!)
The back gallery and end wall have had a glorious makeover in deep, velvety blue — and wow, what a transformation! The space feels cosier, warmer, and full of creative energy. A big, brushy thank you to all the legends who lent a hand in painting. We couldn't have done it without you!
The Barchibalds + Open Day Magic
Our beautiful new ‘Blue Room’ got its debut with the Barchibald exhibition — and what a show! So many fabulous entries and such a vibrant vibe on Opening Night. Old friends reconnected, new members mingled, and the room was full of chatter, laughter, and shared creativity. Congratulations to Anne Lemon (Member) and Isabel Sage (under 18) winners of the People’s Choice.
Open Day kept the good vibes going!
Visitors got hands-on and messy (in the best way) with:
Ceramic wall tile making in the Clay Shed with Jules and crew
Drawing & badge making with Julie and her merry team
Delicious soups and sweet treats (big thanks to our generous members & Kim’s stellar hospitality team)
Studio groups had their moment to shine too — showcasing what they do and welcoming a wave of interest from potential new members. A huge success all around!
Solar Power Upgrade – We Got the Grant!
Fantastic news: We’ve secured a grant to upgrade our solar system!
A massive shoutout to the wonderful Jo Chipperfield, one of our longtime members, who put together the successful application. Jo, you rock!
Garden Reno Incoming
It’s finally happening! The long-awaited garden revamp kicks off later this month. Expect new pathways and planting between:
The main studio and the container
The Clay Shed, container, and around to the Kiln Shed
We can’t wait to see the transformation — a more beautiful BArtS space for all!
Feedback and ideas
There is a new box on the side table near the library that is hungry for your feedback and ideas. We are always keen to hear from members about how we can improve BArtS for all.
Community
Two exciting workshops for children were held during the school holidays in collaboration with BANC. Led by Jules Booth and Hamish Dunlop, the sessions invited kids to discover hidden treasure, decorate masks and treasure chests, and immerse themselves in playful creativity. The atmosphere was vibrant and joyous, with laughter and imagination filling the space.
Returning – a solo exhibition by Yve Thompson
Yve is our pioneer in the studio space being available to long term contributing members of BArtS for hire on a week end for solo exhibitions. What a lovely surprise to see just how talented she is and her beautiful work on the BArtS walls. Her informative chat and Opening was well attended. If you or a group are interested in this initiative and fit the criteria, please get in touch by email info@blackheathart.com
Dates to Pop in Your Diary
October 4–6 – October Open
Only 6 weeks to go! Keeping with our passion for blue this years Open has a theme, yes Blue— broad, interpretive, and open to your wildest artistic imaginations. Entry details online and entries open at the end of August.
October 25–26 – Unframed Exhibition
More info coming soon, so stay tuned!
November 1 – Rhodo Weekend + BArtS 50th Anniversary Celebration
Yes – 50 years of creativity, community, and colour. We’ll be marking the milestone in style!
December 7 – Handmade Christmas Market
A festive favourite! Stallholder entries open first week of November — don’t miss out.
That’s a wrap for August – what a month it’s been! As we step into Spring, we’re feeling refreshed, inspired, and so grateful for this buzzing, brilliant creative community.
Until next time – keep creating, keep connecting, and maybe go sniff a flower or two
– The BArtS Team