The creativity and importance of arts in regional Australia will be on display this week through biennial event Artlands.
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Launched in Rosalind Park on Wednesday and hosted by Regional Arts Victoria, Artlands will take over Bendigo and Castlemaine with dozens of panels, discussions, keynote addresses, workshops, special events and local visual arts projects.
VIDEO: The launch at Rosalind Park. Story continues below
Artlands Victoria creative director Ros Abercrombie said there was a mix of excitement and relief on the launch of the five-day event.
“As each step is completed and it comes together, the nerves subside and the excitement builds,” she said.
"We’re working with some amazing artists and organisations who do their thing so well.
“With groups like the Dja Dja Wurrung and people such as Maria Randall, Trent Nelson and Rodney Carter (on hand) for the opening ceremony, you know it’s in very good hands.”
Exhibitions have already opened across Bendigo’s arts precinct including Cultural Pharmacy in Conservatory Park, Subject Object at the La Trobe Art Institute, an exhibition at Dudley House and an installation in The Capital’s carriageway.
“The band stand also has amazing line up every lunch time from noon and evening from 6pm,” Ms Abercrombie said.
“There are a lot of visual art exhibition that include some beautiful works, soundscapes and installations.”
The national conference includes guest speakers from every state and territory as well as international visitors from New Zealand, Scotland and England.
“They’re all coming from far and wide to talk about regional arts,” Ms Abercrombie said.
“There’s a lot to look forward to and because it’s such a diverse program I can’t pick a favourite.”
Ms Abercrombie said the keynote event on Saturday at Ulumbarra – Regeneration – would be an interesting part of Artlands.
“The six young people talking about the future of arts is inspiring because that’s taking it out of our space to a different realm,” she said.
“It’s really important to see secondary school students lead the conversation and that we make sure to listen to what they say.”
All sessions of Artlands is open to the public but bookings are necessary. Log on to www.artlands.com.au to register or visit The Capital’s box office.
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