The vibrant world of creativity at Darfield Artweek

Malvern Community Arts Council  

Calling all art enthusiasts, creatives, and curious minds!

Darfield Artweek 2023 is just around the corner, and it's time to mark your calendars for a fantastic experience. 

From Friday 6 October to Sunday 15 October, the Darfield Recreation and Community Centre and Te Huanui Art Gallery will come alive with an explosion of colours, shapes, and artistic greatness. 

Darfield Artweek's journey from humble beginnings to its current grandeur is a testament to the power of passion and community support. It all started 42 years ago as a small pottery exhibition hosted at Darfield High School. Back then, a handful of enthusiastic potters displayed their creations. Little did they know that their initiative would pave the way for an artistic extravaganza today. This evolution is a testament to the enduring spirit of Darfield's artistic community. 

Now in its 42^nd year, Darfield Artweek is a beloved annual community open exhibition that continually strives to improve and grow. This exceptional showcase owes its success to the unwavering dedication of over 50 volunteers from the Malvern Community Arts Council's Artweek Committee. As the excitement builds, the committee extends a warm welcome to new volunteers who wish to join them on this artistic journey. 

Darfield Artweek is not just an exhibition; it's a celebration of creativity that transcends boundaries and mediums. The event offers artists from the district and beyond an unparalleled opportunity to showcase their talents to a diverse audience. Painters, photographers, potters, glass workers, jewellery makers, metal workers, woodworkers, and textile artists – all have a platform at Artweek to express their unique visions. 

The grand opening on Friday 6 October, is a night of glamour and anticipation. Dressed to the nines, around 200 invited guests, sponsors, supporters and artists will grace the event. The evening is marked by the announcement of winners, with a different independent, qualified judge invited each year to grant prizes. Thanks to the generous support of local businesses and art enthusiasts, Art Week awards approximately $6000 worth of prizes each year, making it a cherished occasion for artists and patrons alike. 

But the fun doesn't end there! From Saturday 7 to Sunday 15 October, Darfield Artweek opens its doors to the public, attracting around 1,200 visitors from across the region. Whether you're an art connoisseur or just beginning to explore the world of creativity, this exhibition promises something for everyone. Parents and children are especially welcome, as the event seeks to foster a love for art in young hearts too. 

The best part? Admission to the exhibition is free, allowing all members of the community to revel in the talent on display. As visitors stroll through the exhibits, they are encouraged to vote for their favourite artwork for the coveted People's Choice Award. With all entries available for purchase, this is the perfect opportunity to add a touch of creativity to your home or office. 

People Choice winner 2022: Diana Nicholson-Plank - Without a Paddle

Darfield Artweek not only showcases artistic talents but also helps build a strong sense of community spirit and pride.

It reflects the essence of Darfield: a town that cherishes creativity and encourages its residents to embrace the beauty of art. 

In addition to the adult categories, this year's event introduces an exciting new youth section, providing budding artists aged 10 to 18 with the chance to shine. With two age categories, 10 to 14 and 15 to 18, the young artists' creativity will undoubtedly leave visitors awe-inspired. 

In 2022, the event saw an overwhelming response with entries from 160 artists and a record-breaking 375 artworks displayed. As they gear up for Darfield Artweek 2023, the anticipation is palpable, and they can't wait to witness the extraordinary talent in this year's exhibition. 

So, save the dates and get ready to immerse yourself in a world of creativity, passion, and boundless imagination. Whether you're an artist, an art lover, or simply someone seeking inspiration, this is an event you don't want to miss.

Let's come together to celebrate the beauty of art and the vibrant community of Darfield!