Creative Community Takes Centre Stage for SALA Festival 2026
Victor Harbor's community of artists, makers and creative venues are preparing to celebrate their work during the 2026 South Australian Living Artist (SALA) Festival, with residents and visitors invited to explore exhibitions and open studios showcasing the creativity, stories and perspectives of local artists.
Throughout August, galleries, studios and community venues across Victor Harbor will welcome visitors to explore a wide range of artistic practices, from ceramics and textiles to painting, photography, mixed media and contemporary Indigenous art.
This year’s program is again supported by a City of Victor Harbor initiative offering a SALA registration fee subsidy to participants, to help eligible local artists and venues offset the cost of registering exhibitions, encouraging greater participation and strengthening opportunities for local artists to share their work.
Mayor Dr Moira Jenkins said SALA Festival plays a vital role in celebrating the artists and creative practitioners who contribute to Victor Harbor's unique identity. "Victor Harbor's artists, makers and creative practitioners contribute enormously to the character, vibrancy and cultural life of our city. Their creativity enriches our community, creates opportunities for connection and learning, and helps tell the stories of our region. Council was pleased to support local participation in SALA Festival through a registration subsidy program, helping to reduce barriers and encourage more artists to share their work. Whether visiting a gallery, stepping into an artist's studio or discovering an artist for the first time, SALA Festival provides a wonderful opportunity to experience the creativity that makes Victor Harbor such a vibrant place to live and visit."
SALA 2026 Exhibitions and Open Studios in the Victor Harbor region include:
Through Our Eyes – Coral Street Art Space, Victor HarborNgarrindjeri mother and daughter artists Belinda Wilson and Marika Wilson present a deeply personal exhibition exploring landscape, identity and memory through vibrant colour and layered textures. Through Our Eyes invites audiences into stories of place, belonging and cultural connection through contemporary artistic expression.
Luisa Stocco Studio – Encounter BayCeramic artist Luisa Stocco opens her Encounter Bay studio to visitors as part of SALA's Open Studio program. Guests will be able to view new ceramic works available for sale while gaining insight into the artist's creative process and previewing sculptural works currently in development for future exhibitions.
victor.sa.gov.au
Inspiration – various artists - Victor Harbor Regional Gallery, Victor HarborFeaturing local artists whose work draws upon personal experiences, imagination and observations of the world around them, Inspiration celebrates the many ways creativity can emerge from everyday life and the landscapes of the Fleurieu Peninsula.
Breath of Nature - Tabitha McGorm – Hindmarsh ValleyBreath of Nature is a series of contemporary watercolour paintings inspired by the artist’s own bird photography and the everyday wildlife surrounding her rural home. Exhibition and open studio.
Fleurieu Creative Crew - Davinia Coomber, Kate Garz, Cheryl Rogers, Geraldine Rosser – Encounter BayThese four artists have banded together to present an exceptional display of exciting artistry with an exhibition, Open Studio and Artist Demonstration
Felt Like It Creations - Fleurieu Crafty Creators: Gwen Anderson, Dianne Assheton, Jean Gunnett, Petra Maringer, Lyn Sinclair – Encounter Bay
A vibrant exhibition and open studio from enthusiastic, skilled crafters who share a passion for all the arts and crafts. Display includes weaving, wet felted hats and vessels, painting, crochet garments and other textile creations.
Hindmarsh Valley Art Exhibition - Hindmarsh Valley Progress AssociationHindmarsh Valley Memorial Hall is pleased to showcase local artists from around the Fleurieu, celebrating the creative spirit of the region and the strong connections between artists, community and landscape.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to explore local exhibitions, meet artists and discover the rich creative talent that continues to shape Victor Harbor's identity and cultural life.
For the full SALA Festival program, visit SALA Festival: www.salafestival.com/