Surf Coast Arts Trail

2025 Surf Coast Arts Trail _ Bobby Dazzler Photography-138.jpg

Proudly presented by Surf Coast Shire, the Surf Coast Arts Trail returns on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 August 2026, bringing a vibrant weekend-long celebration of creativity across the region.

Registrations for artists and venues will open on Monday 19 January 2026.

The Arts Trail invites visitors to explore artist studios, sheds, galleries and homes, meet the makers, see works in progress and experience the creative energy of the Surf Coast — from the hinterland to the coast.

If you’d like to explore last year’s program while you wait, head to surfcoastartstrail.com.au.

Register for the 2026 Surf Coast Arts Trail.

Registrations to take part in the Surf Coast Arts Trail 2026 are open, with registrations close on Monday 30 March 2026.

Register for the 2026 Surf Coast Arts Trail

Artists and venues interested in participating are encouraged to review the key information below before registering, to ensure they understand the requirements and expectations of the program.

Before submitting your registration, please read the following 2026 documents carefully.

Register for the Photography Tutorial 7 Sat March

Art in Focus: How to Photograph Your Work

Want your artwork to look its best for promotional material? Join photographer Kirstie-Lee Smith for a tutorial designed for artists who want to be part of the 2026 Surf Coast Arts Trail.

She’ll cover tips for photographing both 2D and 3D work, so your art looks its best for printed programs, websites, and festival or market applications.

This is a great chance to learn from a professional, get practical advice, and feel confident about presenting your work to a wider audience.

Come along and get your art in focus!

About your facilitator: Kirstie-Lee has been professionally photographing people, places, and products for 23 years. During this time, she has worked with numerous small businesses and creatives from the High Country, the Surf Coast, and internationally. Over the years, product photography has grown in importance with the rise of social media and online selling. Recognizing that not every business is equipped to capture their products effectively, Kirstie-Lee now focuses on helping small businesses make their products stand out.

 

Online Information Session Tues 10 Mar

Artists and venues interested in taking part in this year's Arts Trail are encouraged to register for our online Information Session, hosted by the Surf Coast Shire Arts Team.

This session is particularly suited to first-time participants and will provide an overview of the Arts Trail, what’s involved in participating, and how to prepare a strong registration.

The session will be held online via Microsoft Teams on:

  • Tuesday 10 March, 1pm to 2pm

Registrations are essential.

Register for 10 March online session

If you’re unable to attend a session but would still like more information, please contact the Arts Team at artsteam@surfcoast.vic.gov.au.

 

                 

Photo: Bobby Dazzler Photography