Published on Thursday, 13 August 2026 at 12:19:19 PM
The creativity, colour and character of the Perth Hills were on full display on Wednesday evening as artists, supporters and community members gathered at the Shire of Mundaring Civic Room to celebrate the launch of the 2026 Mundaring Hills Open Studios brochure.
Officially launched by Shire President Paige McNeil, the annual event marks the beginning of one of the region's most anticipated arts programs, with this year's Open Studios set to feature 85 artists across 33 studios and three art venues throughout the Shire.
Speaking at the launch, President McNeil highlighted the important role creativity plays in shaping the identity of the Perth Hills.
"One of the things that makes our Hills communities so special is creativity. We are fortunate to be home to an incredible number of talented artists, makers and creative people who draw inspiration from the landscapes, heritage and unique character of the Perth Hills," President McNeil said.
"Their creativity enriches our communities and helps showcase what makes this region such a remarkable place to live and visit."
The event will once again invite visitors behind the scenes of artists' studios from Swan View to Wooroloo and all of our villages inbetween, providing a rare opportunity to meet local artists, learn about their creative practice and experience the stories behind their work.
President McNeil said the appeal of the event extends well beyond the local area.
"For many years, Mundaring Hills Open Studios has provided a way for that creativity to be shared. It opens doors that are usually closed, giving visitors the chance to step inside studios, meet artists, learn about their craft and experience the creative process firsthand."
"In doing so, it creates connections between artists and the community, between neighbours and visitors, and between people and place."
Last year's event attracted approximately 4,000 visitors and generated more than 17,000 studio visits, with around 69 per cent of visitors travelling from outside the Perth Hills. Participating artists reported more than $670,000 in art sales, demonstrating the significant cultural and economic value the event brings to the region.
The Shire of Mundaring is supporting the 2026 program with funding of $26,150 as part of a three-year funding commitment of $70,000, helping to promote and deliver the event while strengthening the Perth Hills' reputation as a recognised cultural destination.
The launch also celebrated recent funding support from Lotterywest, which has approved a $25,000 grant to support professional development opportunities for artists and the introduction of bus tours from the city, helping make the event more accessible to new audiences.
President McNeil thanked everyone involved in bringing the program to life, including the artists, volunteers, sponsors and organisers who continue to make the event such a success.
A special thank you was also extended to the Mundaring Arts Centre for hosting and facilitating the annual brochure launch event, which provides an opportunity to celebrate the artists behind the program and showcase the creative talent that continues to draw thousands of visitors to the Perth Hills each year.
With studios opening across the Perth Hills throughout September, residents and visitors alike are invited to discover the remarkable artists, creative spaces and unique stories that continue to make the region one of Western Australia's most vibrant creative communities.
Find out more on the Mundaring Hills Open Studios website.
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