Hanging with the arts

Art lovers rejoice because McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast has some of the best contemporary galleries featuring the pick of acclaimed local, South Australian, and Australian artists.

The McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast arts trail lets you explore the arts scene like a local. Here’s a few top picks that is ‘a must’ as part of any visit:

Port Noarlunga Arts Centre <add link>

The Arts Centre hosts a range of exhibitions, workshops and performances throughout the year. There’s also a gift shop offering locally-crafted mementos. Staff will guide you through what’s exhibiting and assist with where to go next.

Sauerbier House, Port Noarlunga <add link>

A working studio and exhibition space, Sauerbier House is an exquisitely restored heritage building situated on the picturesque Onkaparinga River mouth at Port Noarlunga. The iconic locale and building are reason enough to visit, but head inside and you can chat to an artist in residence and view their current works.

The Gallery, McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Visitor Information Centre <add link>

Part of the region’s visitor centre, The Gallery exhibits a range of local artworks, changing throughout the year and is a ‘must-visit’. The visitor centre is also home to local specialists with a wealth of information, maps and guides to help you make the most of your visit. Ask for the public art trail and Fleurieu Arts and Culture Guide.

Emprades Vintage & Design, Clarendon <add link>

Whilst an antique store by trade, it’s set out like a gallery space to browse and wander. There’s everything from exquisite vases to quirky Danish furniture, all housed in a heritage 1860s pickle factory that’s been lovingly restored.

Willunga Glass Studio <add link>

Discover the glass creations of Glenn Howlett at his working studio. Creating hand-blown glass works for over 20 years, Glenn is happy to show visitors through his space. Take a special memento home from the gift store and gallery which is also home to Off the Slate gallery <add link> hosting a number of other local artists works too.

Micky Barlow Gallery, McLaren Vale <add link>

Aboriginal contemporary artist and basket weaver Micky Barlow has recently opened her gallery in McLaren Vale where she displays and sells her stunning work. Her award-winning works tell stories of family members and dreamtime…make sure to chat to Micky while you’re there.

Red Poles, McLaren Vale <add link>

One of the region’s largest showcases featuring over 350 local and South Australian artists, as well as hosting a unique collection of Indigenous works, Red Poles (yes, name is influenced by the famous blue poles painting) is a great spot to grab a bite to eat too.

Fleurieu Arthouse, McLaren Vale <add link>

A ‘must-visit’ artisan-hub where you can buy all forms of artisan products and artworks from glass, ceramics, jewellery, sculpture, prints, paintings, and so much more. Located on the picturesque grounds of the famous Hardy’s Tintara Cellar Door, the gallery will both surprise and delight.