OPEN HOUSE AND STUDIO DAY HILL END
As the blossom buds are bursting and colours start to appear it is time to once again head to Hill End's Open Day on Sunday 25th October 2015. A number of the villagers are throwing open their homes, their gardens, their Royal Hall, Court House, churches and studios to allow you to peek inside and see how they now live, work and play in an historic town.
Most of the buildings open for viewing were constructed in the 1870's and have seen generations of families through their doors. Some were almost in ruins when they were lovingly "adopted" by people with a passion and on Open Day they wish to share this with you. Many years of painstaking restoration and preservation (and never mind the dollars!) have gone into conserving these buildings as useful and comfortable dwellings. They are not museums, they are everyday buildings, still being used for their intended purposes and now all the more treasured for being so. Some have the "mod cons" but these are skilfully integrated into an eclectic environment where they seem right at home."Why didn't I think of that?" will be a constant comment.
Our court is now in session....2015 has heralded the inclusion of a new venue, rarely seen before by visitors to our town unless the long arm of the law was after you! The Hill End Court House has seen disputed mining claims, charges of "furious riding", matters relating to unlicensed dogs and the odd murder. These have all been dealt with here over the years. It will be open to hear your case, then head to St Paul's Church where you may repent..
The gardens promise to be in full bloom so bring your camera as Hill End in spring is a delight to behold. Artists, Donald Friend, Russell Drysdale and Margaret Olley found inspiration here and so will you. The unique light is still the same but the facilities are now so much better. Visit the artists who are now here and who have given up city life for a brief tree change to absorb the atmosphere.
A cottage with a bathroom "out the back" means that it is a place to escape to and relax in a lingering tub. Leave the mobile phone on the dining room table; it probably won't work out there anyway! View the family portraits in the Royal Hall and watch out as their eyes follow you around the room..
This is your opportunity to speak to these people, who are proud of their village, in a relaxed friendly atmosphere and ask them the questions that have surely arisen as you wander around the town. Volunteers will be available at all venues to guide you to your next place of exploration. C'mon in!
Bookings to experience this great day out on Sunday 25th October are essential and can be made by phoning 02 6337 8306 or email lapaloma@skymesh.com.au
Registration and payment is at the Royal Hall in Beyers Avenue (sorry no cash on the day) Cost: $25.00 per person/concession $18.00
Further information go to www.hillendartscouncil.blogspot.com.au
Supported by
Bathurst Regional Art Gallery
National Parks
Hill End Arts Council
No comments:
Post a Comment