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Each summer the lawns of Warland Reserve transform into one of Australia’s most spectacular outdoor galleries. Beneath the iconic white marquee, thousands of artworks capture the colour and character of the Fleurieu Peninsula and beyond. The Victor Harbor Art Show, now approaching its 47th year, remains one of the region’s proudest traditions—an event that celebrates not only artistic excellence but the enduring community spirit that makes Victor Harbor special.

Run entirely by the Rotary Club of Victor Harbor, the show attracts more than 10,000 visitors annually and features more than 1,600 works from artists across Australia. Over its lifetime, the event has generated hundreds of thousands of dollars in art sales and, just as importantly, helped fund countless Rotary community initiatives—from youth leadership and mental-health programs to local infrastructure and international humanitarian projects.

Victor Harbor Art Show Chair Julie Irwin says the show continues to flourish because of its unique mix of professionalism, accessibility and heart.

“It’s a celebration of creativity that also gives back,” she says. “Every ticket, every painting, every volunteer hour directly supports the community. That’s what makes it such a special event on our calendar.”

A new judge with a passion for the coast

For 2026, Rotary Victor Harbor has announced that acclaimed Henley Beach artist Victoria Rolinski will serve as show judge. A passionate plein-air impressionist, Rolinski is known for her intuitive brushwork and luminous depictions of the South Australian coastline. Her paintings capture the fleeting moods of sea and sand—the golden light, shifting tides, and wind-etched dunes.

Raised near the beach that continues to inspire her work, Victoria brings a deep respect for the landscape and the artists who interpret it. Her award-winning paintings have been exhibited widely across Australia, and she has earned recognition for her ability to translate natural beauty into vibrant, emotive canvases.

As judge, she will apply that same observant eye to the Art Show’s prize selections, encouraging authenticity and creative risk-taking.

“We’re thrilled to have Victoria Rolinski join us,” says Julie Irwin. “Her love of the landscape and her energy for supporting emerging artists will bring a wonderful perspective to our show.”

A legacy of local talent

While the event continues to grow nationally, many of its most treasured stories come from close to home. Among those is Mike Barr, whose rainy cityscapes have earned him international acclaim. Mike has been part of the Victor Harbor Art Show for more than 20 years, winning Best in Show in 2016 and serving as judge for 2025.

His impressionistic depictions of rain-soaked streets—born from a moment of inspiration on a wet North Terrace two decades ago—are now collected worldwide. Yet Mike still considers Victor Harbor a creative anchor.

“The Victor Harbor Art Show is the highlight of South Australia’s art calendar,” he says. “It’s where artists, collectors, and the public all meet in one joyful space.”

With more than 100 awards since 2003, including an invitation to demonstrate at the Art Gallery of South Australia during the Clarice Beckett exhibition in 2021, Mike’s artistic journey is a testament to persistence, curiosity and community. Both he and his wife Tina have supported the show for decades, helping to build the reputation it enjoys today.

Artwork image: Artist Mike Barr

Another long-time contributor is Bruce Davey, whose story reflects the Art Show’s grassroots spirit. A self-taught painter from Ardrossan, Bruce first entered the Victor Harbor Art Show in 2005, selling one of his three entries—and he hasn’t missed a year since. Over two decades, he has sold more than 60 paintings through the event, often five on opening night, and has become one of its most recognisable exhibitors.

Bruce’s love of the southern coastline shines through in his detailed oil landscapes, many inspired by the Fleurieu and Yorke Peninsula shorelines. He’s not only an exhibiting artist but also an active volunteer and sponsor, proudly supporting the show’s youth awards.

“This show gives emerging artists a place to grow,” he says. “It’s where people can share what they’ve learned and feel part of something bigger.”

His dedication extends beyond the canvas—he constructs his own stretcher frames and finishes every piece by hand. That craftsmanship, he says, is part of what makes painting so rewarding.

“I still get a real buzz out of seeing someone take one of my works home,” he adds. “It never gets old.”

More than an art show

Beyond the canvases, the Victor Harbor Art Show represents the best of regional collaboration: local businesses sponsor awards; volunteers work tirelessly behind the scenes; and visitors travel from across the state to enjoy the festive seaside atmosphere. Warland Reserve becomes a meeting place where art lovers, families and tourists can wander between easels and enjoy live music, food and the beauty of Victor Harbor’s waterfront.

The Art Show also acts as a stepping-stone for emerging artists, providing exposure to collectors and galleries. Over the years, countless careers have begun under the marquee, with many artists citing the event as their first significant sale or public recognition. The Rotary committee ensures that categories cater to a wide range of media and experience levels—from professional oils and acrylics to sculpture, mixed media, photography and youth sections.

“We want this show to remain accessible,” Julie Irwin says. “It’s about creating a space where established and up-and-coming artists can share the same stage.”

The Victor Harbor Art Show continues to thrive because it remains true to its roots: community, creativity and connection. Whether you’re an artist entering for the first time or a visitor returning for another summer of seaside colour, the show offers something unique—an invitation to see the world through local eyes.