Councils showcase local artists for SALA Festival 2026

7 August 2026

Every August, the South Australian Living Artists (SALA) Festival transforms galleries, libraries, public spaces and community venues into vibrant hubs showcasing local creativity.

Councils across South Australia are hosting artist exhibitions, installations and workshops that invite visitors to experience art in their local area.

City of Adelaide

Definitely Not A Suspicious Shopfront

Step inside an imaginative gallery transformed into a quirky shopfront filled with handcrafted curiosities and evolving art installations. Artist Stephen Soeffky continues to reshape the exhibition throughout its run, inviting visitors to explore ideas of reuse, repair and creative transformation.

For more information visit City of Adelaide.

Adelaide Hills Council

Liz Newman Knitwear: Back to the Future

Celebrate the colourful legacy of South Australian fashion designer Liz Newman through an exhibition of her iconic Australian knitwear. Recreated by members of the Handknitters Guild of South Australia, the collection brings the bold style and unmistakable character of the 1980s back to life.

Find out more at Adelaide Hills Council.

City of Charles Sturt

Unity Housing Artists

Discover artwork created by Unity Housing tenants and staff in an exhibition celebrating creativity, diversity and lived experience. The collection highlights the power of art to share stories, community connections and showcase local talent.

Find out more at City of Charles Sturt.

City of Unley

Let's Go Fly a Kite

Step inside a historic church transformed by colourful quilted kites created by local artists, schools and community groups. The exhibition celebrates imagination, collaboration and the simple joy of making something by hand.

Find out more at City of Unley.

Wakefield Regional Council

2026 Balco Balaklava Art Prize Exhibition

Browse more than 100 artworks by established, emerging and student artists inside Balaklava's historic courthouse. The annual exhibition showcases an impressive range of styles and continues to be one of regional South Australia's premier art prizes.

Find out more at SALA.

Town of Walkerville

Walkerville Comes Alive

On Sunday 30 August 2026, take a stroll along Walkerville Terrace and enjoy a morning of live art, music and entertainment as local businesses transform into creative spaces for SALA Festival. Visitors can meet artists, watch performances and experience a vibrant community celebration that welcomes art lovers, music fans and families.

Find out more at Town of Walkerville.

SALA Festival celebrates the artists, makers and creative communities that help shape South Australia. With exhibitions and events happening across metropolitan and regional councils, there are countless opportunities to discover local talent this August.

Image credit: Liz Newman.