The 46th Tyers Art Festival is set to light up Gippsland from November 7-9, with more than 400 entries from 145 artists highlighting the region’s vibrant creativity and community spirit.
Among them are more than 20 East Gippsland artists, many using the Bairnsdale Art Society as a collection point for their works.
Festival director Peter Harrison said the response this year had been extraordinary.
“Each year, the Tyers Art Festival brings together the creative heart of Gippsland and beyond, but this year’s response has been truly extraordinary. Welcoming 145 artists and over 400 works, we’re proud to see our community’s passion for art and culture shine brighter than ever as we celebrate our 46th year,” he said.
Artworks span a wide range of mediums, including acrylic, oil, watercolour, pastel, drawing, mixed media and designer crafts, promising an inspiring showcase for visitors of all ages. Awards for the festival include best exhibit, category prizes for oil, acrylic, watercolour, pastel, mixed medium, craft and drawing, the GLaWAC Art Award, hanger’s choice award, popular choice award and seven young artist awards.
This year also sees the introduction of the inaugural Jean Galbraith Prize, celebrating the legacy of the renowned botanist and her dedication to protecting Gippsland’s native flora. Developed in partnership with the Galbraith family and the Latrobe Valley Field Naturalists Club, the prize – themed ‘Gippsland Flora’ – has already attracted strong interest from artists inspired by the region’s unique botanical heritage.
Winners across all categories will be revealed at the Tyers Art Festival Gala Evening on Friday, November 7, where guests can enjoy first views of the exhibition, meet 2025 feature artist Isla McRae, listen to live music from Fields of White, and sample Bush Tucker Bites, a unique taste of Indigenous cuisine. Tickets are available online.
New features for 2025 include The Makers and Bakers Market at Bert Christensen Reserve on Saturday, November 8, from 10am to 3pm, showcasing handmade ceramics, jewellery, textiles, art and locally baked treats.
Also debuting are Gallery Graze afternoons, offering festival entry, a complimentary glass of wine to keep, and a cheese platter from Maffra Cheeses. Sessions run Saturday, November 8 (12.30pm – 3.45pm) and Sunday, November 9 (12pm – 2.30pm), with tickets available at the door.
The weekend wraps up with a Devonshire Tea on the Sunday from 10am to 12pm. Visitors can enjoy a fresh scone with jam and cream, a choice of tea or coffee, and light entertainment from Fields of White.
Whether you are an art lover, foodie or simply looking for a fun day out, the Tyers Art Festival promises a weekend celebrating Gippsland’s creativity, flavours and community spirit.
