Get LOST in Leichhardt

By Myles Stedman

Hidden in the urban jungle of Sydney’s inner west are the creative spaces where art begins its long journey from concept to canvas. For one weekend in March, they emerge from the dark to form the Leichhardt Open Studio Trail.

On March 8 and 9, 40 galleries and studios will be open to the public for a rare glimpse behind the scenes where you will be taken on a memorable journey of original paintings, pottery, prints, textiles, photography and more.

LOST is part of Art Month Sydney. Held in March, each Art Month celebrates the vibrancy and variety of contemporary art in Sydney by throwing open the gallery doors and presenting more than 200 exhibitions and events.

Justin Fox, one of the co-founders of Zen Garage in Leichhardt, is excited by the opportunity to introduce his warehouse space to the wider community.

“Zen Garage is a place where like-minded people can just hang out and chill,” he said.

“Work by artists will be on show, and communities are welcome to drop in.”

Todd Fuller, another artist exhibiting at LOST, said personal studios are very special places.\

“They are often stacked with objects which trigger ideas or insights into thought patterns, there are drawings on walls – not all successful, and mementos of works from the past,” he said.

“You learn a lot about an artist from their studio, by letting others in you get the opportunity to demystify the creative process.”

Leichhardt Mayor Darcy Byrne said the event would showcase the inner west’s vibrant and diverse creative arts scene.

“You’ll get a pretty rare chance to see behind the scenes and catch the artists at work – the inspiring work-in-progress stuff you don’t get to see at a finished exhibition,” he said.

Visitors will be able to meet the artists, see them at work in their studios and purchase directly from the studio door. A bicycle tour will convene at 10am for a “moderate pace” ride, courtesy of ARTcycle.

Leichhardt Open Studio Trail: March 8 and 9, various locations