Behind the Canvas: Exploring the 2026 Margaret River Region Open Studies event in style!
Spring down south is always a magical time, but between 12 and 27 September 2026, the Margaret River Region transforms into something truly spectacular. For 15 days, Margaret River Region Open Studios throws open the doors to the private creative worlds of 155 local artists.
It is officially the largest event of its kind in Australia, where you’ll find painters, sculptors, ceramicists, jewellery makers, glass artisans, and timber craftsmen (to name a few) welcoming you into their private farm sheds, beach shacks, converted railway carriages, and beautiful home studios, taking you down gravel tracks you’d otherwise never discover. This is one of the best ways to explore our beautiful region.
The best part? It’s a completely free annual event. While entry costs nothing, several artists collect a voluntary gold coin donation at the door, with proceeds going directly to support local charities.
The Art of the Perfect Itinerary
With over 150 studios scattered across our back roads and forest lanes, mapping out your day can get overwhelming quickly. Figuring out which gravel track leads where, missing a turn, or playing the role of designated driver takes the relaxation right out of a premium spring getaway.
That’s where we come in. At Forage Safaris, we want you to focus entirely on the art, the landscapes, and the incredible food and wine along the way.
We are offering two exclusive ways to experience the Margaret River Open Studios with us this September:
1. The Bespoke Art Safari (Tailored Just For You)
If you already have your copy of the 2026 Event Guide and know exactly who you want to see - whether it's iconic masters like Leon Pericles, or some of the 33 incredible new artists joining the lineup this year including Jan’s friend, Tanya Flynn-Wood Art- just hand us your wish list and we will create the journey.
Your Selection, Our Wheels: You choose the studios; we handle the perfect route, the timing, and the driving. Tour suggestion – Private Driver.
Local Recommendations: Not sure who to pair together? Leave it to us. We can curate a balanced itinerary that seamlessly blends your preferred art style with a beautiful boutique vineyard lunch or a stop to chat with a local artisan producer. Tour Suggestion – Full Day or Half Day tour
2. A Creative Twist on Your Private Tour
If you already have a premium private tour booked with or are planning a classic day of tasting your way through the region’s world-class cellar doors and food experiences, you don’t have to miss out on the creative buzz.
Seamless Integration: If requested in advance, we can easily weave a couple of handpicked studio stops into your day. It’s a fantastic way to take a break from the tasting benches, step inside a working studio, and perhaps bring home a piece of original Western Australian art to enjoy for years to come.
Let’s plan your spring escape: Because this is a highly anticipated event across the South West, our private driver availability for September is filling up fast.