The Kangaroo Island art scene has gradually transformed from quiet achiever to rising star.
Ceramic artist Mark Capon, Kangaroo Island
The architecture and natural features of the island, such as Remarkable Rocks, provide wonderful creative inspiration. More than 10 per cent of the island’s 4,500 residents play an active part in one of the many galleries, studios and craft outlets.
Island artists regularly feature in national exhibitions and art competitions such as the prestigiousWaterhouse Natural History Art Prize. The range of media used is vast – acrylics, oils, watercolours and mixed media; bronze, silver and gold; fused, blown and cast glass; found object sculpture; natural object assemblages; solar plate and linocut prints; beading; textiles; ceramics and photography.
Many accommodation properties also showcase local artists as part of their decor and provide access to unique pieces for purchase as a souvenir. Increasingly, the arts festivals and events provide another good reason for visiting the island, with exhibitions such as the Kangaroo Island Art Feast in October, the South Australian Living Arts Festival, Penneshaw Easter Art Exhibitionand a range of residential workshops. Public art is also featured in a number of locations with installations at Penneshaw, Baudin Beach, Kingscote, American River, Penneshaw and Rocky River.
