Renowned for its beautiful beaches, beloved for its natural scenery, Busselton has a reputation for nostalgic seaside holidays. But, have you heard the buzz about Busselton’s thriving art scene?

With turquoise waters, diverse flora and beautiful wildlife for a muse, it makes sense that Busselton is home to some incredible artists and public works. From events to cultural institutions, here’s our guide to discovering Busselton’s diverse art scene.

Margaret River Region Open Studios

It’s not often that you get the chance to peek into the studio of your favourite artist – seeing how they work, uncovering their inspirations and discovering more about the creations you love. Margaret River Region Open Studios takes place this September, and it gives you the chance to do just that.

This free event is a rare opportunity to explore private art studios of 144 artists who call the region home. You’ll meet painters, potters, timber craftspeople, illustrators and installation artists and so much more. Camille Reid, Mandy Ferreira, Christine Elston and Lesley Curtis are a few artists within walking or cycling distance of Mandalay – and definitely worth a visit.

Margaret River Region Open Studios runs for 16 days from 7 to 22 September 2024. Ready to plan your studio trail? Just pop over to their website and filter by subregion.

Busselton Cultural Precinct

On the main street of town, the Busselton Cultural Precinct is home to some of Western Australia’s oldest buildings, including the Old Courthouse (more below) and Police Complex.

A welcoming hub of arts, culture and stories, here you’ll find a sculpture walk, the Old Busselton Gaol, the Lockup coffee shop, Acting Up Youth Theatre and so much more. There’s an abundance of interactive art and experiences to enjoy, for families and couples alike, so be sure to add this to your to-do list on your visit to town.

Find out more about the Busselton Cultural Precinct and everything on offer during your visit.

Old Courthouse Complex

During the Colonial and early Federation eras, this heritage-listed courthouse complex provided law and order, governance and telecommunications. Now, some 60 years later, the Old Courthouse is a must-visit landmark rich with stories, history and culture.

Throughout the year, you’ll find local artists in residence in Stables Studios, exhibitions and a gorgeous shop featuring some stand-out local goods. And even better yet, during Margaret River Region Open Studios, 6 artists will call this eclectic building home – so it’s a must-add to your Open Studios trail.

Find out more on the Old Courthouse Complex website.

Saltwater Convention and Performing Arts Centre

Saltwater is set to open early in 2025, with a new art gallery, performing arts and convention venue within the cultural precinct. Construction is almost complete and this state-of-the-art convention and performing arts centre will be a hub for the creative arts, complementing the historic elements of the cultural precinct opposite.

Saltwater Busselton will host major events and will be a key attraction within the Cultural Precinct. If you’re planning a visit from mid-2025 onwards, make sure this is on your list and plan ahead for the wonderful arts on show.

Discover Public Artworks

What better way to explore Busselton than on foot, finding the public artworks scattered within its laneways, trails and natural reserves. These creations make for great scrapbook photos (and social media snaps too).

New to the scene is a 72-metre-long mural in a laneway at the rear of Woolworths Busselton, titled Boodja Koondarminy (Country Dreaming). It was created through a couple of stages – from theme development workshops with Aboriginal Elders and community; design of the artwork by local Aboriginal artists Melanie Hume, India Armstrong and Stefan Calyon; then painting the background and the mural artwork itself. The mural weaves a fascinating tale of place and community; “The story is along the lines of our Country and all that the land provides for us. These are bush foods and animals from the land and sea. It will also represent each town from this region and the story around the names.”

It’s never been easier to discover the installations, sculptures and murals of the region. Simply head to ‘Near Me’ on the City of Busselton website, pop in your location and filter by “Art Trails”.

You’ll have a detailed view of some of the incredible artworks waiting for you, how to find them and the happenings nearby.

Dive Under the Sea

Eight metres below the surface, just off the end of the Busselton Jetty, lies an artificial reef and marine habitat made of 13 supersized sculptures. From a 3-metre-tall ceramic Postmaster to a  Southern Right Whale sculpted in steel, a sprawling octopus and a beautiful bronze mermaid. The project has been deemed a great success, with marine life finding new homes within the artistic creations. Don snorkelling or scuba gear and dive down to see the sculptures on a clear day.

See the latest Mandalay mural

Painted in September 2023 following the renovation of our 2 Storey Villas, our latest mural by Michael Phillips @mflips features a New Holland Honeyeater, Bronzewing Pigeon and a Motorbike Frog. Three native critters that don’t get enough credit for their subtle beauty!

The mural is tucked away but you can find it on the southern wall of the 2 Story Villa by the small playground.