Regular followers of Mrs Harris’ Shop will be aware that each year, we hold an exhibition that features regional South Australian artists.
Encounters features five terrific artists from the Hills and Fleurieu region. The fact that the region is not so far from Adelaide means that, with a short journey, you have extra opportunities to see and enjoy their work.
Rita Hall is well known to many people for her wonderful prints, as well as her painting.
In Encounters, we are able enjoy her bold collograph and watercolour unique state prints.
If you’re a ‘shoe person’ (well, I was, some time ago!), then Rita will have you wishing you were young enough to wear such extravagances again! She tells me that she actually owned (and wore) all of them at some time!
Rita lives and works in Hahndorf, where you can visit her studio.
Monika Morgenstern lives in Strathalbyn. She tantalises us with her glimpses of mystical. Her magical works of colour rely on light and space, and you, the viewer, with your perceptions. ‘Meditative’ comes to mind . . .
These beautiful digital pieces have evolved over time and are the result of many hours of work.
Peter McLachlan’s works are inspired by a love of and respect for the outdoors, capturing the spirit of place with an emphasis on felt space, storytelling, isolation and wonderment.
Peter lives in beautiful Port Elliot, where his studio is a treasure trove of works in progress.
Catherine Hewitt lives in Aldgate and she recently spent some time on an artist residency in Curtin Springs.
Her beautiful lamps transport the viewer right to the outback via their wonderful colours – the blue of the outback sky and red of the soil – and textures. The paper of the shades is hand-made recycled cotton rag paper, with some made from native grass.
Jorji Gardener lives in Bridgewater. She has long drawn on her botanical and horticultural background to create her prints, and to highlight our connection with nature. It is her intent to facilitate understanding and appreciation of the beauty and importance of our native flora and fauna.
These pieces stem from time spent at one with the environs of the Pangarinda Botanic Gardens at Wellington.
The gallery is open on Saturdays and Sundays, 11am – 3pm, or by appointment.
I’d thoroughly recommend a visit in person. There’s nothing quite like seeing the real thing!