Artistic tradition

Photo of 'Queen of the Shire' - an abstract statue depicting a woman. The statue is covered in brightly coloured mosaic tiles.

Nillumbik has a rich artistic tradition. Drawn by the natural environment, the Shire has been home to many well-known creative artists.

These include:

  • early Australian Impressionist painter, Walter Withers (1854-1914)
  • writer, Alan Marshall (1902-1984)
  • the Monsalvat arts colony, started by Justus Jörgensen in the 1930s
  • the Dunmoochin arts colony, started by Clifton Pugh in the late 1950s.

The area is also known for its distinctive mud brick style houses. This style was pioneered by architect Alistair Knox who designed and built many Eltham houses in the post-war period.

The very popular Nillumbik Artists Open Studio event demonstrates how the Shire's artistic tradition continues to be valued today. 

Nillumbik Council also supports its vibrant arts and cultural community through a range of different arts and cultural development programs.

Find out more

To read about our collections and opportunities for artists, visit the Arts and Culture section of the website.

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