Adelaide Hills Art and Culture
See art in the Adelaide Hills
Adelaide Hills’ art is inspired by nature’s finest colours. A human touch has been gently applied over 170 years. The Hills’ best known artist is landscape painter, Sir Hans Heysen.
After migrating from Germany, Heysen moved to Hahndorf in 1908. Four years later, he built The Cedars, the studio he called home until he passed away in 1968. Located on a 60-hectare property, Heysen’s studio is open for tours.
Galleries and art history
See Heysen’s painting tools and sketches. Take a leisurely walk around the garden. His timeless images are inspiring. Hahndorf is now a regional art centre, largely due to Heysen’s influence. Galleries are dotted around the beautiful old German town.
The Hahndorf Academy reflects the Adelaide Hills’ passion for art. Visit the 170 year-old building to see exhibitions, galleries, studios and museums. There are art classes, if you’re really keen.
Enjoy one of Australia’s best traditional and contemporary Aboriginal art collections, which dates back to the 1950s. Grab a rare chance to see dances of the region’s Permangk people.
See tribal art and international art at Aptos Cruz Galleries in Stirling.
Embrace your creative side
Art centres have sprung up around the Adelaide Hills as more towns have followed Hahndorf’s lead. Some even let you eat dinner and stay overnight.
You can watch artists in studios working on paintings, drawings, prints and textiles. Whether your passion is two or three-dimensions, pastels, portraits or drawing, the Adelaide Hills’ has a studio for you.
Add to your collection
If you want to take something home, products made from a wide range of materials are available. You might like something shiny. There’s glass, gold and silver jewellery. Enjoy wine tasting and pottery at Samphire Wines and Pottery.
In the cellar of 130-year-old heritage-listed Pikes Historic Brewery, watch handwoven textiles and tapestries being made on giant looms.
Birdwood’s National Motor Museum hosts exhibitions dedicated to our passion for the car.
It’s quite simple really. In the Adelaide Hills, art reflects life.
Things to do
Here are some great ideas for you to try while you’re in the area.
What's on
There are plenty of events on in the Adelaide Hills. Here are some ideas you might like.
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