Creative Collie
The Art Lover’s Guide to Collie: Galleries, Murals & Creative Finds
Collie is often celebrated for its stunning natural landscapes, so it should come as no surprise that beneath the rolling hills and lush forests lies a rich tapestry of artistic experiences awaiting the discerning art lover. From galleries showcasing local talent to vibrant street art and creative spaces, here’s the art lover’s guide to Collie to fuel your creative soul.
Collie Art Gallery
At the heart of Collie’s vibrant arts scene is the Collie Art Gallery, a must-visit destination for any art lover. The gallery offers a unique insight into both local and regional artists with its rotating exhibitions, showcasing a wide range of artworks, from traditional paintings to contemporary sculptures.
Visitors can enjoy the diverse styles of artists from across the South-West, with frequent exhibitions highlighting the best of Collie’s artistic talent.
Expect local art exhibitions, regular art workshops and events and even opportunities to purchase unique art pieces.
The Collie Art Prize is a much looked forward to biennial event where artists explore questions related to each year’s theme. With $50,000 up for grabs, it’s no wonder this prestigious event attracts talented artists from all over the country.
The Collie Mural Art Trail
Walking through Collie is like stepping into an outdoor art gallery. The town has become a canvas for large-scale murals, turning public spaces into vibrant showcases of local creativity. The Collie Mural Trail is a self-guided tour (you can find a map at the Collie Visitor Centre!) that takes you on a journey through the town’s streets and laneways, where you’ll find murals that reflect the town’s history, culture, and natural beauty.
Collie’s revitalised urban spaces showcases the stories the town, with scenes of coal mining heritage to depictions of the region’s stunning landscapes and wildlife offering a captivating experience for art lovers and photographers alike.
What to Expect:
- A mix of large-scale murals and smaller, intricate artworks
- Stories told through art, reflecting Collie’s history and environment
- Free to explore and perfect for a leisurely stroll
Tip: Take a camera or sketchbook along – you’ll want to capture the incredible detail and vibrancy of these works.
If you would like to fully experience the Mural Art Trail, jump on a mural tour with Alison from Forest Explorers! Alison offers storytelling experiences in the Collie River Valley, Western Australia. Wander through the streets and alleys adorned with murals showcasing themes like the environment, Indigenous culture, and heritage by talented Western Australian artists.
Art Groups in Collie
Looking to meet some local artists? Head on over to the Collie Art Group, that operates out of the Old Collie Police Station. Groups meet there to create different forms of art like quilting, patchwork to pottery. Over 40 members meet often during these creative meet ups and are happy to show visitors around the building. They even have a small shop of hand-made gifts if you’re looking for local souvenirs.
If you’re looking to get some hands-on experience, the Collie Woodturner’s Group often run workshops where you can watch wood turners turn wood into stunning pieces of art. Some of their pieces are available for sale at the Collie Visitor Centre and the Woodturner’s Club House at Band Hall, Corner Wittenoom Street and Steere Street.
Inspirational Landscapes in Collie
For art lovers who are inspired by nature, Collie’s outdoor attractions are sure to give you that spark of creativity. One of the most famous natural spots in the area is Black Diamond Lake, a stunning body of water surrounded by lush forests and dramatic landscapes. The lake’s vibrant turquoise colour and surrounding bushland make it a perfect location for outdoor artists and photographers.
Don’t forget Wellington Dam, the location of the world’s largest dam mural. It’s quite a sight to stand before “Reflections”, the 34m high, 367m wide mural painted by famous artist Guido Van Helten. The concept of the mural was formed through weeks of research with locals in the community, sorting through photographs and historical memorabilia to form the six images painted across the dam.
Art Shopping in Collie
The Collie Country Markets are held on the first Saturday of every month and is a great place to hob-nob with the locals while browsing the unique creations from local artists and craftspeople. From jewellery and pottery to handmade textiles and paintings, visiting the market is a great way to meet the local artists, learn about their creative processes, and purchase one-of-a-kind pieces to take home.
If you like searching through quaint shops for that special find, you have to stop by the Collie Artist Den, a gift shop that showcases works from local artists. You never know what you’re going to find when poking around this rustic den, but you will find something special that is unique and handcrafted for your loved ones.
There’s no better place to get a feel for the region than at the Collie Visitor Centre! A great place to stop by for local art pieces, they also stock a great range of gifts, souvenirs and local information, so definitely pop in to browse the selection!
Adventures in Collie
While you’re in Collie appreciating the depth of art and creativity in this small town, make sure you also head out into nature for the real show. Collie’s reputation as a outdoor hub of nature-based activities is growing and it’s not hard to see why! Check out the outdoor adventures you can have while in Collie!
A tourism project initiative proudly supported by South32 Worsley Alumina.
