Who can apply to take part in Art Trail SJ?

Art Trail SJ is open to emerging and established artists across a wide range of creative practices.

Artists who live or practise within the Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale are encouraged to apply and will be given preference during the selection process.

Artists from outside the Shire are also welcome to apply, however priority will be given to local artists who live or practise within Serpentine Jarrahdale.

Do I need to be a professional or established artist?

No. Art Trail SJ welcomes both emerging and established artists. You don't need an extensive exhibition history or a professional studio. We're interested in original, artist-made work and artists who are keen to share their creative practice with visitors.

What types of art and creative practices are eligible?

We welcome a broad range of creative practices including painting, drawing, sculpture, ceramics, photography, textiles, printmaking, jewellery, woodwork and other forms of visual art and making. Work showcased through the trail should be original and artist-made rather than commercially mass-produced products.

Do I need to have my own studio?

No. Your creative space doesn't need to be a traditional artist's studio. It could be a home studio, shed, workshop, spare room or another suitable venue. The important thing is that the space is suitable for welcoming visitors during the Art Trail.

What if I don't have a suitable space open to visitors?

Don't let that stop you from applying. If you don't have a suitable space of your own, there may be opportunities to connect with local venues or other participating artists.

Venue owners will be invited to attend the Artist Information Night, giving artists an opportunity to meet, make connections and explore potential spaces.

The Art Trail SJ team may also be able to help connect artists with potential venues, however artists will ultimately be responsible for confirming their venue arrangements.

Can more than one artist participate from the same venue?

Yes. Artists may share a suitable venue or create a cluster with other participating artists. Each artist will still need to complete the required application process and provide individual public liability insurance cover for $20 million.

Is there a cost to apply?

A $100 payment is required as part of the application process. If your application is unsuccessful, this payment will be refunded.

Do I need public liability insurance?

Yes. All participating artists are required to be covered by current Public Liability Insurance with a minimum of $20 million cover for the duration of Art Trail SJ.

Each participating artist must hold their own individual cover, unless they are part of an established business or organisation whose insurance policy provides appropriate cover for the participating artists and their activities.

Evidence of current insurance will be required as part of the application process. If the policy expires before Art Trail SJ, an updated Certificate of Currency will need to be provided before the event.

If you're unsure whether your insurance meets the requirements, please contact us and we'll be happy to discuss it with you.

Why are applications assessed?

The application process helps ensure participating artists and proposed locations meet the requirements of Art Trail SJ and contribute to a consistent and welcoming visitor experience. The aim isn't to exclude emerging artists – it's to make sure the trail is a good fit for both artists and visitors.

Can I sell my artwork during the Art Trail?

Yes. Artists are encouraged to display and sell their work and may also use the opportunity to connect with potential clients and discuss commissions. Artists are responsible for managing their own sales and payment arrangements.

What support will participating artists receive?

We want artists to feel supported throughout their Art Trail SJ journey.

Successful artists will receive an Artist Guide with practical information and resources to help them prepare for the trail. The Shire will also offer marketing workshops in the lead-up to the event to help artists promote themselves and make the most of their participation.

A dedicated Shire liaison officer will be available for artists to contact with questions or if they need guidance along the way.

Participating artists will also be included in Art Trail SJ marketing, communications and visitor information, with regular updates provided in the lead-up to the event.

I'm not confident completing an online application. Can I get help?

If you have a question about Art Trail SJ, the application process or participating as an artist, please get in touch. We’re happy to help.