The town of Monbulk has truly found its artistic heart as it marked its second annual, ‘Celebrate Monbulk’ art event on Thursday evening, 13 November.
From humble beginnings, the event has blossomed into a celebration of creativity that embraces all ages, skill levels, and backgrounds – whether a four-year-old just starting out or a 94-year-old seasoned artist, Celebrate Monbulk has shown, in this community, everyone is an artist.
The key organiser and local art teacher at Senoritas Art Workshop, Nikki Carter said it’s been a fulfilling experience to see this event grow.
“Our community art event has truly become a cornerstone of celebration for everyone involved, and it’s a joy to witness it thrive,” she said.
This year’s event showcased more than 100 entries, with over half of the submissions coming from first-time artists.
Monbulk has become a place where people, young and old, are discovering the joy of creating.
“It’s inspiring to witness so many people in Monbulk and the surrounding areas attend our beginner workshops,” Carter said.
“Their enthusiasm and creativity are a reminder of all the boundless possibilities art brings into our lives.”
One of the event’s highlights was the stunning array of artworks displayed in local shop windows.
From fluro forests to textured tulips, portraits of local heroes, and vibrant pop art-inspired pet paintings, the town was filled with colour and creativity.
Carter said the town’s shopkeepers and shoppers were captivated by the works and it sparked lively discussions across the community.
“It was a bittersweet moment to see the paintings being taken out of the windows, but the joy they brought will linger in our hearts,” she said.
Among the many works displayed were beautiful portraits of local icons who make Monbulk so special.
Monbulk caterer and comedian Glen McLeod, the well-known “Butterfly Lady” Yvonne Duke, and hula hoop performer Elle Indika were all honoured in the artworks.
Glen McLeod, in particular, was celebrated in a portrait by local artist Juan Lozano. The piece, titled “It’s My Pantry and I’ll Fry if I Want To,” won the People’s Choice Award, which was voted on by attendees at The Monbulk Soccer Club.
Duke, known for her passion for butterfly breeding said she was touched by the recognition.
“I was very surprised and honoured,” she said.
“I didn’t know I had inspired the artists, but I did recently receive a bundle of wonderful children’s drawings and artwork as a thank-you for butterflies given to The Patch Primary School, and I cherish that gift.”
Duke’s love for butterflies is evident in her efforts to educate others about these fascinating creatures.
“The metamorphosis that butterflies go through is educational and ultimately brings joy and a sense of awe to anyone who is lucky enough to witness it,” she said.
“That is really worth sharing and why I breed butterflies as a hobby, it is also really fun!”
Duke’s butterfly breeding hobby has also sparked a deeper interest in local biodiversity.
“Butterflies are not just fascinating, but they are also an important building block in the ecosystem,” she said.
“They inspire a love of nature, respect for its fragility, and a desire to help the insect world flourish.”
In her role as a hobbyist butterfly breeder, she has started a Butterfly Group at the Ferny Creek Horticultural Society.
The group is open to all ages and it’s a great way for people to learn more about local butterflies and how to help them thrive.
“I hope people will plant gardens where butterflies can flourish without the use of insecticides,” she said.
The art event also recognised the talented youth of Monbulk.
In the Under 15s category, Georgia McKinnon took home the top prize, while Artie McLeod and Olive Edwards were commended for their impressive works.
There were also incredible performances from the Beginner category.
Marilyn Brew was awarded first place, while Joni Duvall, Laura Cross, and others received highly commended and commendation awards.
In the Open category, Emma Johnson was crowned the winner, with Gill Edwards and Stuart Ashburner receiving highly commended awards.
The event’s success was made possible with the support of the Senoritas Art Workshop, Glen Cooks Food, and the efforts of a dedicated team of volunteers, including Laura Cross, who helped with setting up displays and the winners’ pop-up art gallery.
Special thanks were also given to Juan Lozano for his graphic design skills and Andrew Chisholm for overseeing the People’s Choice Award.
Carter said the town is already buzzing with excitement for next year’s event.
“We eagerly look forward to creating more art and stamping Monbulk as the most creative little town in the hills,” she said.
“Let’s continue to foster a community where art thrives, and creativity knows no bounds.”
“Art is fun, it brings people together and gives everyone a way to express themselves,” Duke said.
