Doors are open as Arts Trail planning starts

THE call has gone out for Loddon creatives to be part of a weekend of artist travels in October.
The second Loddon Valley Arts Trail will showcase the local arts community.
“We were delighted with the way the first arts trail came together last year, creating a map of creative spaces and a network of artists across the Loddon Valley,” said Loddon Shire’s tourism and economic development David Stretch. 
“It’s given us a strong start, which we are keen to build on, so we invite artists who might like to open their studio, as well as venues interested in hosting an exhibition,
to get in touch. he feedback from visitors was that it’s a great way to experience what’s special about our shire, and that supports our local businesses and accommodation providers.” 
Mr Stretch said that, this year, the focus would be on enriching the experience for locals and visitors, to showcase the places and people that make Loddon special.
Tenar Dwyer, of Inglewood Community Neighbourhood House, said the response to the first arts trail had been positive.
“We had art on show in our gallery, and on walls throughout the centre, and there were workshops in other Neighbourhood Houses that were booked out,” she said. 
“It’s a lot of hard work for artists and those who run the venues but we know from the feedback that it was certainly worth it. We look forward to seeing what goes on show this year.”
Last year’s trail incuded  artists’ studios opening for visits throughout the weekend, as well as exhibitions in galleries, cafes and halls across the shire.
The trail will be on the first weekend of October.