NOW in its fourth year, SAM Open is a vibrant and compelling exhibition that celebrates the rich diversity of artistic talent across the Hume Region, engaging audiences with a diverse array of creative and unique works.
Stunning, intriguing, beguiling and beautiful, the 66 exhibited works reflect not only the established artistic talent of the local community but the burgeoning creative practice profuse throughout.
Showcasing creatives aged 16 and older, this year’s SAM Open has no set theme—a decision exhibition curator Caroline Esbenshade believes has had compelling results. Allowing exhibitors to delve deeper into themes of interest or explore new directions, Caroline said:
“Curating this year’s SAM Open has been really interesting and amazing. It’s been a little bit harder to curate because there is no set theme. The works are hung around the colours, a little bit of theme as well, but really leaning into visual textures of the work. It allows the viewer to have a more varied experience as you’re looking through the space and allows you to slow down and focus on the works. Because they aren’t within a theme, you’re really trying to tease out what each work is about—I think it’s quite beautiful.”
Painting since the age of 17, Raymond Hill is one of the more established artists whose painting, Goulburn Bend Toolamba enchants with its plein air study of the Goulburn River, marked by red gum trees and wattles.
“I’ve been lucky enough to travel around the country and overseas and been able to paint what I see. But painting in Australia is my main drive. I paint what I see – it’s a beautiful country so let’s look after it.”
Inspired by a knitted work crafted by a great grandmother she never met, Makenzie River’s Hand Me Down Clothes is a fascinating calico dress incorporating a wool knitted piece that weaves themes of generational connection and the value of textiles.
“Something about having that physical item she made with her hands feels very connected to her. You can have that even with people you’re not related to.”
Janine Wilson’s Flamingo, created after she turned to art during COVID, reflects the joy she’s found in painting.
“It’s really an honour to be in here… there is so much talent. It’s breathtaking.”
SAM Open 2025 runs until November 2 in the Hugh D.T. Williamson Community Gallery, where you can also vote in the People’s Choice Award, which closes on October 14 at 5pm.
