MORE than 400 artworks and photographs from over 130 artists and students across the Latrobe Valley and beyond will feature in this year’s 47th Tyers Art Festival.
This highlights the continued strength of creativity and community participation throughout Gippsland.
The festival returns this Friday (November 6) to Sunday, November 8, bringing together visual arts, photography, local makers, food and community activities for a weekend celebration of regional talent.
Festival director Peter Harrison said the strong response from artists and students demonstrates the importance of providing opportunities to showcase local creative talent.
“The Tyers Art Festival continues to be a platform where artists, photographers and students can share their creativity with the community,” he said.
“Receiving more than 400 entries from over 130 artists and students is a wonderful reflection of the talent that exists throughout Gippsland and the Latrobe Valley.”
Visitors can expect an impressive exhibition featuring artworks in oil, acrylic, watercolour, pastel, mixed media, drawing and craft, together with the exciting new Tyers Landscape Photography Competition, making its inaugural appearance in 2026. The new competition invites photographers to showcase the unique beauty of Gippsland’s inland landscapes and has generated strong interest from across the region.
The festival will also celebrate the second year of the Jean Galbraith Prize, established to honour the legacy of renowned botanist Jean Galbraith and encourage artistic interpretations of Gippsland’s native flora. Following a successful introduction in 2025, the award has quickly become a feature of the festival’s exhibition program.
“The introduction of the Tyers Landscape Photography Competition and the continuing success of the Jean Galbraith Prize demonstrate how the festival continues to evolve while remaining true to its purpose of celebrating creativity, community and our unique Gippsland environment,” Mr Harrison said.
Winners across all categories will be announced at the Tyers Art Festival Gala Evening this Friday.
Attendees will be among the first to view the exhibition, meet 2026 feature artist Barry Masterman-Smith, enjoy live entertainment and experience Bush Tucker Bites featuring traditional Indigenous-inspired flavours.
Tickets are available through the festival website: tyersartfestival.com.au/gala-evening
A popular feature of the festival weekend, the makers and bakers market will operate on both Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 3pm, offering visitors the opportunity to browse handcrafted products, unique gifts, artisan foods and locally produced treats while supporting regional makers and small businesses.
Gallery Graze returns on Saturday and Sunday afternoons, building on its successful debut in 2025. For $15, visitors receive festival entry, a complimentary festival wine glass, a glass of wine and a cheese platter featuring Maffra Cheeses – a relaxed way to explore the exhibition and connect with other art lovers.
The weekend concludes with the ever-popular Devonshire Tea on Sunday morning, where visitors can enjoy a freshly baked scone with jam and cream, accompanied by tea or coffee and live entertainment in the welcoming festival atmosphere.
“What makes the Tyers Art Festival special is that it offers something for everyone. Whether you’re passionate about art and photography, looking for unique handmade products, or simply wanting to enjoy a day out with family and friends, the festival brings people together to celebrate the very best of our region,” Mr Harrison said.
The Tyers Art Festival has become one of Gippsland’s most recognised community arts events and continues to provide opportunities for artists to exhibit, sell and gain recognition while attracting visitors from across Victoria.
