Get Creative on the Kiama Coast

Craving creativity? The hills and valleys of the Kiama coastline is home to a host of exceptionally talented artists, writers, photographers and teachers. Whether you want to watch, learn or experience the products of the Kiama area’s free-flowing inspiration, our legion of local creatives have got you covered.

SEVENMARKS Gallery. Photo: Cesar Cueva

Gorgeous Galleries

If you’re looking to engage in an expansive art experience or wander through unique Australian architecture and beautiful gardens, you’ve come to the right place. The vision of renowned artists Chick Butcher & Cobi Cockburn uniting with their close friends, curators and artists Nina & Cesar Cueva, SEVENMARKS Gallery is the newest addition to Kiama’s cultural landscape. With thoughtfully curated exhibitions that bring together art in all its finest forms, the gallery seeks to bridge the space between studio and exhibition and does so perfectly. The dark industrial exterior is in stark contrast to the wide, white expanse of the interior, allowing the talent of the artists to speak for itself. The Gallery launched its exhibition program in November 2022 and is offering engaging exhibitions, artist talks, workshops and targeted events. Open to the public each Friday 10am–5pm, or by appointment.

Only 10 minutes south, Gerringong holds its own when it comes to art. Bordered by charming cafés and beautiful boutiques, Fern Street Gallery is perfectly positioned on the main drag, and its namesake road. The award-winning gallery is home to a select group of resident artists, including co-founder Kerry Bruce, and proudly represents others from around the country. Featuring a diverse collection of pieces including sculpture, photography, paint and mix-medium, the gallery is open 7 days.

If you’re up for a scenic car ride, Bundanon Art Museum is an easy 45 minute drive from Kiama via the beautiful Jasper’s Brush, Meroo Meadow and Cambewarra. Set on a lush 1000 hectares wildlife sanctuary, the museum rotates a changing program of contemporary exhibitions, unique cultural experiences, events and concerts. Discover world-class contemporary art, step back through time at the historic Homestead and see inside the studio of celebrated Australian artist Arthur Boyd. Once your art cup is full, wander the landscape and immerse yourself in Bundanon’s natural beauty with a bushwalk and enjoy a seasonal menu brimming with fresh local produce at Ramox Café.

Fern Street Gallery. Photo: Jon Harris

Candles + Clay

Just around the corner, art gets a little more interactive. Soul Clay Studios brings together a collection of the area’s premier ceramic artist, who are more than willing to share their skills. A leap from the original Gerroa garage workshops, the studio is lovingly tended to by husband-and-wife duo Zeynep and Marcus Testoni, and is undoubtedly one of better things to come out of the pandemic. Whether you’re looking for a Friday Night Clay Date, to try your hand at wheel-throwing or book the kids in for a session, this is the place to do it.

Want to bring the creativity to you? Luxury Clay Experience run on-demand, individually tailored workshops wherever you are. Whether you’re after a clay kit delivered to your accommodation to knead out in your own time, or a done-for-you event, the team can work in with local restaurants, producers and wineries to create the day of your dreams.

Head a little further west, into the foothills of the escarpment and you’ll find Willowvale Road – home to workshops of all kinds. The little black cabin boasts views over vineyards out to the sea, and the crisp country air just seems to carry creativity. Specialising in scents, the hand-poured candle and diffuser workshops are the flagship offering here, however don’t be surprised to see the likes of flower arranging and Champagne-tasting on the program.

Soul Clay Studios. Photo: Rebecca Slade

Picture Perfect

Ever wondered what the home of an artist looks like? Well, you’re in luck. Whether there’s something in the water here, or inspiration is simply unavoidable in the South Coast scenery, the Kiama area is home to a host of talented artists who’ve extended invitations into their studios. In the north, Ken and Lea Tucker’s gallery, Two Gulls, provides a studio space for them to work and share their talents with workshop attendees or those wishing to purchase a quintessential Kiama piece.

Mix-medium artist Kerry Suttonberg’s Gerringong arts studio captures the spirit of small towns and brings the sound of the sea alive with her colourful pieces. Working with watercolours, oils, canvas and lino printing, Kerry’s classes are sure to see your creativity flowing (you can find it open over long weekends and by appointment). Head now into the hills and you’ll discover the magic of Foxground. Discover artist Robyn Sharp in her home-based studio and gallery. The beauty of Australia’s abundant wildlife and brilliant landscape is expertly captured by Robyn while also gifting new life to old objects.

Artist: Robyn Sharp

Vines + Views

If you’d really like to get a taste of the area, Crooked River Wines will get the (grape) juices flowing. Offering winery tours, cellar door tastings and an award-winning menu in addition to their jam-packed calendar of events including, fun runs, yoga, music and wellness events, it’s the perfect place to finish a day. Oh, and with vistas that stretch across the vineyards to the ocean beyond the outlook is pretty spectacular, too.