The appetite for community art workshops continues to grow in Buloke, offering a much-needed escape from busy, always-on lifestyles.
“When we finally get time for ourselves, we’re often too drained to do anything but flop on the couch and watch television, or mindlessly scroll through social media feeds,” said Donald artist, Kerry Duncan, who has delivered two workshops at the Donald Train Station precinct.
“This is often mistaken for relaxation, but actually leads to greater mental fatigue. These no-experience-needed workshops are proving to be a great way for people to relearn how to relax — sparking creativity, laughter, and a refreshed mindset.”
The success of these workshops is evident across the region. In December, Charlton artist Bronwyn Fisher’s decoupage sessions in Nullawil and Nandaly attracted participants of all ages, while an upcoming fabric weaving workshop with Charlton artist David Beatty — scheduled for next month — was fully booked within just three days of being advertised by Charlton Neighbourhood House.
Building on this momentum, Wycheproof Train Station hosted a two-day workshop last weekend with Gunditjmara and Wotjobaluk artist Tanisha Lovett and Barkindji Ngiyampaa Maligundidj artist Tracy Wise. The workshop will culminate in the Visions of Tomorrow Exhibition hosted by the Wycheproof Community Resource Centre, set to take place this Thursday, February 13, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Wycheproof Train Station.
Deeper Purpose
Beyond the creative process, these workshops serve a deeper purpose.
“They provide a safe space for people to process their experiences as well as share a bite to eat,” said Buloke Shire Mayor Cr Alan Getley.
Research has shown that creative expression reduces stress, lowers cortisol levels, and improves mental well-being.
“We are fortunate to have such talented people in our community and to support their training in trauma-informed disaster recovery approaches,” the Mayor added.
“Before the Community Recovery Hubs Program, there were no artists in northern Victoria trained in this way. Now, we have more than a dozen in Buloke, strengthening our capacity to respond to future events.”
Lino print art workshops with Wotjobaluk artist Kristie Witt and Birchip artist Kristie Dean have also been in high demand, with sessions already delivered Charlton and Culgoa, as well as other arts projects at Birchip and Sea Lake. These workshops incorporate storytelling and an environment walk, inspiring intricate designs and fostering a deeper connection to nature.
For those still keen to participate, limited spaces remain for their next free Lino Print Workshops:
- Donald Train Station – Saturday, 15 February 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m..
- Wycheproof Train Station – Sunday, 16 February 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m..
Bookings essential via Customer Service at 1300 520 520 or email buloke@buloke.vic.gov.au.