New Art Ambassadors to Champion Margaret River Region Open Studios
A newly appointed group of art ambassadors is set to play a key role in elevating the profile of the South West’s vibrant creative sector, supporting the continued growth and visibility of the Margaret River Region Open Studios.
Open Studios Art Ambassador Andrew Thornton Hick said the appointment of regional representatives for Busselton, Dunsborough/Yallingup, Cowaramup and Margaret River will broaden the reach of Open Studios to new audiences.
The new ambassadors are:
BUSSELTON: @jacksondrawingsupplies
Cindy Mather, Jacksons Drawing Supplies Marketing Team
DUNSBOROUGH/YALLINGUP: @yallingupgalleries
Emma Skinner, Director of Yallingup Galleries
COWARAMUP: @laurenwilhelmartist
Lauren Wilhelm, Artist and MRROS devotee
MARGARET RIVER: @j9carter10
Janine Carter, radio host and MRBTA tourism champion
Mr Thornton Hick said the initiative brings together respected artists, cultural advocates, and community leaders to help promote the event across the Margaret River Region and beyond.
“Their appointment reflects a broader commitment to strengthening the region’s reputation as one of Australia’s leading destinations for arts, culture, and creative tourism.
“The ambassadors will contribute by sharing the stories behind participating artists, engaging with local and visiting audiences, and helping to extend the reach of Open Studios through digital platforms, community networks, and tourism channels.
“Their involvement is expected to enhance visitor engagement and deepen public appreciation of the region’s diverse artistic practice. The ambassador program adds significant value by building stronger connections between artists and audiences, while also supporting local economic development through cultural tourism.”
By amplifying the visibility of participating artists and studios, the initiative strengthens the position of the Southwest as a nationally recognised arts destination and reinforces the importance of community-led cultural promotion.
Mr Thornton Hick said in the last three years the feedback has shifted from both interstate and international tourists happening to be here during Margaret River Region Open Studios to actually booking to be here for it.
“Every such visitor takes back positive event experience and local artworks that will perpetually speak for the value of this event,” Mr Thornton Hick said.
“The National Tourism Awards have also played a strong role in the event’s recognition and the international awareness of MRROS and it’s scale and scope continues to grow year on year.”
The Margaret River Region Open Studios will return this year with a wide-ranging program of more than 150 studio openings, exhibitions, and artist-led experiences across the region, from 12 to 27 September 2026. Visitors are encouraged to book accommodation early via presenting partner privateproperties.com.au or https://mrropenstudios.com.au
For more information:
art@mrros.com.au
mrropenstudios.com.au
Follow MRROS on Instagram, Facebook and You Tube @margaretriverregionopenstudios
@andrewthorntonhick
Media contact:
Donna Watson – 0419901229 or donna@lastsay.net.au
