What began as a modest idea in 2012 has now flourished into one of Roxburgh Park’s most vibrant community art events and artist Mary Herring has been there from the very beginning.
“I started the art festival back in 2012,” Ms Herring said reflecting on more than a decade of creativity and growth.
The 2025 Bridgewater Lake Art Show, hosted by Benetas, returns to the Bridgewater Lake Retirement Estate on August 30 and 31, with more than 50 artists exhibiting up to 300 works.
But for Ms Herring, it’s never just been about numbers.
“It’s a matter of finding something that appeals to you,” Mary said of her creative process.
“I actually prefer landscapes as opposed to flowers and occasionally I might dabble in something more experimental.”
Ms Herring hopes her journey can inspire others to take the first step into the world of art, no matter their age or experience.
“I didn’t start painting until my later years, and it’s not just the opportunity to sell your paintings, but for me it’s the opportunity to share them,” she said.
“For me it doesn’t matter whether they’re sold or not, it’s the pleasure of actually putting your artwork in.”
The festival’s spirit of inclusion is central to its success.
“I think it does [bring people together], particularly because the festival is open not just to Bridgewater but to the other art groups involved like Glenroy, Plenty Valley, Sunbury and other people in the community,” Ms Herring said.
When asked to recall her favourite year, Ms Herring said there were a couple that stood out.
“I think 2015 for me … It was the achievement of seeing how it started to what it eventually became.”
