Art & music lover’s guide to what’s on

It’s not just Mad March when the city’s alive with art and music. This winter, the CBD and North Adelaide will be jam packed with gigs and exhibitions. From art connoisseurs and music aficionados, to those who just enjoy pretty things and cool beats, there’s something for everyone to see, listen and enjoy. Check out these suggestions for an aurally and visually good time!

After taking a break in 2020 (curse you COVID!), Umbrella Festival is back in 2021. Presented by local not-for-profit organisation Music SA, it’s a musical extravaganza with over 170 events. From Adelaide Arcade and Her Majesty’s Theatre, to the Adelaide Festival Centre and The Mill, Umbrella Festival events can be found in every corner of our fine city. With a huge variety of acts, we’re sure you will find something that tickles your fancy. Make sure you check out the program.

Uncork your creativity! Painting while enjoying a nice glass of wine is a celebrated pastime of talented artists and amateurs alike. Studio Vino combines the two worlds in a fun and casual setting, providing instructors to guide you through the re-creation of a featured painting. Be the next Monet or Van Gogh!

The South Australian Living Artists (SALA) Festival celebrates and promotes visual artists from across the state. But, you don’t need to traverse the state to admire their amazing works, with dozens of exhibitions being held throughout the month across the CBD and North Adelaide. Don’t miss your chance to experience contemporary art and culture in the form of paintings, drawings, sculptures, large multimedia installations, and more with the SALA Festival.

The Ramsay Art Prize is Australia’s most generous prize for artists under 40, coming in at a cool $100k – the winner’s work also becomes part of the Art Gallery of SA’s collection. This year, judges were unanimous in their choosing of Kate Bohunnis’s kinetic sculpture, edges of excess. Step into the gallery to view her winning entry, along with 24 finalists and cast your vote in the People’s Choice Prize (winner announced 13 August).

Suit-up (or down) and enjoy the best music and arts Adelaide has to offer this winter. Use the hashtags #MyAdelaide and #ADL when posting your photos to Facebook and Instagram, so you can share with us what you get up to this winter!