The callout for local artists, businesses, and organisations to take part in this year’s Arts on the Plains Festival has begun following the official announcement of the event on Tuesday, 7 May 2024.

Held at the Gawler Community Gallery, the event, presented by Gawler Business Development Group, was marked by the unveiling of the festival’s poster and this year’s vital naming rights sponsor – The Gawler Business Development Group and Festival Partners, Beyond Bank Australia, Town of Gawler, Gawler Community Gallery and Tony Piccolo MP.

The festival is a celebration of local talent across the Adelaide Plains, Member for Light and Duty Member for Schubert, Tony Piccolo MP, is hoping more people will put their hands up to run events and activities again this year.

“The Arts on the Plains Festival is a testament to our community’s rich cultural fabric,” Mr Piccolo said.

“It’s an opportunity for local artists to showcase their work and for businesses and organisations to demonstrate their support for the arts, and the community has already shown great enthusiasm with many eager to participate.

“This festival is not just about art; it’s about community, collaboration, and the collective growth of our region.”

Gawler Business Development Group Business Liaison and Marketing Coordinator Caren Brougham said her group is pleased to be able to present this year’s festival.

“This type of event can put a town on the map, drawing visitors who may return for future events or recommend the town to others, thus increasing tourism potential and provides businesses with valuable exposure to a wide audience, enhancing brand recognition and customer loyalty.

“The influx of visitors during festivals can attract investors and entrepreneurs who see potential in the town's growing cultural scene, leading to long-term economic development and diversification.

“Additionally they provide a platform for artists to generate income and increasing their visibility in the arts community.”

Gawler Community Gallery’s Louise Brawn said her team are pleased “to partner of the Arts on the Plains Festival, which shines a spotlight on local artists.”

“Together, we weave creativity into our community’s tapestry, supporting businesses and tourism to the region, whilst celebrating the magic of art.”

Beyond Bank Community Development Manager Bronwyn Anderson is delighted her organisation could “throw our support behind the Arts on the Plains Festival for the first time” and continue their “strong focus on supporting events that strengthen local communities.”

“We recognise the importance of art and its place in our local communities. We know that festivals like Arts on the Plains create an environment where people can come together to celebrate and showcase local creative talent.”

“The Plains region has so much to offer. We’re excited to help promote local talent to the rest of the state.”  

Events are set to be spread right across the region, with Town of Gawler Mayor Karen Redman is pleased the Council will host activities in the Gawler Administration Centre and Gawler Civic Centre again this year.

“The Arts on the Plains Festival provides opportunities for local artists and creatives to showcase their talents. Linking the event to the annual SALA Festival increases its exposure and encourages visitors from outside the regions to come from Gawler.”

“This provides benefits to the businesses in our Town as people coming to view the exhibitions often stop for a coffee or a meal, perhaps even some retail therapy, while they are here.”

“Council looks forward to partnering with the Arts on the Plains Festival again in 2024, providing spaces for local creatives to exhibit their work and we hope that more local creatives get involved, expanding the event’s positive impact on our community.”

To register your interest in hosting an event/activity, or for more details about this year’s event, visit www.gawlergallery.com.au/arts-on-the-plains