Country Arts SA pays respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and recognises their continuing connection and spiritual relationship to these lands, waters and skies. We are committed to listening and helping care for Country, and to safeguard, share and celebrate First Nations’ living cultures.
Intersection returns in 2025
The highly successful Intersection program launches its second iteration next month, visiting creatives in the Spencer Gulf region. Artists are now invited to register their interest.
A collaboration between Country Arts SA and Guildhouse, Intersection provides bespoke professional development opportunities for artists at all stages of their careers. The program willhold studio visits and community events toconnect creatives in Whyalla, Port Augusta and surrounding areas in April. The tour will then continue to Kangaroo Island, Clare Valley and the Murray River later this year.
Limestone Coast textile artist Jo Fife – one of the 126 creatives visited last year – shared how incredibly valuable the visit was for her practice.
“As a regional artist I do not have the connection and networking opportunities as artists in metropolitan regions,” she said.
“I feel studio visits are a great way to connect and chat firsthand with Guildhouse and Country Arts SA.“
“The information shared will assist in developing my practice further, allowing more opportunities within the arts.”
Country Arts SA Visual Arts Manager Lauren Mustillo said Intersection both celebrates the experience and acknowledges the challenges of living in regional SA.
“It was important for us to visit artists on their home turf to understand their experience and flip the script on the idea you need to come to the city to access advice and professional opportunities,” she said.
“We’ve met artists on the banks of the Murray, in orange orchards, by the ocean, in sheds and home studios, and seen what makes them tick and what inspires them.
“We’ve learnt that isolation in all its diverse forms is a constant challenge for regional artists, but it can also be a strength. The places artists live, and work can inform their artwork and feed research and storytelling that is completely unique to them.”
Guildhouse chief executive officer Beth Neate alsoemphasised the importance of the program for regional communities.
“There is a depth and breadth of artistic talent in our regions, but we know that many regional and remote artists experience barriers accessing services, networks, audiences and professional opportunities,” she said.
“As an artist-led organisation, we are committed to meeting the needs of artists where they are at and sharing relevant and up-to-date advice that can increase an artist’s capacity, confidence and connectivity.”
The program is designed to combat the isolation often faced by regional and remote arts practice by offering tailored support through studio visits, one-on-one meetings and community events. Each event features a local artist sharing their insights and lived experiences practicing in the regions.
Artists can book their free studio visit with Guildhouse and Country Arts SA staff, via the below links.
Since its launch in 2024, Intersection has already visited artists in the Fleurieu Peninsula, Yorke Peninsula, Riverland and Limestone Coast.
2025 Tour Dates:
Spencer Gulf: April 8-11
Kangaroo Island: May 21 -24
Clare Valley & Burra: September 17 – 20
Murray River, Lakes & Coorong: October 22-25