Darling Street comes alive
Darling Street is set to be transformed this week into a living art gallery and playground for budding fashionistas.
The Balmain Rozelle Art and Fashion Week commenced on Monday and will draw to a close this Sunday following a big weekend of free events from fashion shopping tours and personalised style sessions to exhibitions and guided art tours of the area’s best galleries.
Spokesperson for the Balmain Rozelle Chamber of Commerce, Sandy Jackson, said there will be something for everyone with a wide range of activities, displays and shopping opportunities – all with a distinct local flavour.
“The event is really drawing from the best of what the Balmain Rozelle community has to offer,” she said. “All the art and fashion being showcased is from local artists, galleries and boutiques.”
The area has developed into one of Sydney’s most exciting precincts, famous for its unique shops, galleries, pubs, cafes and restaurants as well as a fascinating history.
During the week long program of events, locals and visitors to Darling Street can experience, among other attractions, fashion shows, shopping tours and style sessions, in-store events, art exhibitions and open galleries, guided art tours, live music, street chalk art, and art classes.
Many activities promise to be highly interactive and are rapidly gaining interest from the public.
“Many of the offerings, such as the personal stylists, are receiving a great response,” said Ms Jackson. “We recommend getting online to make a booking and ensure you don’t miss out on these opportunities.”
Among the big ticket attractions of the weekend are the professional designer fashion shows to be hosted by the Balmain Town Hall. They will run throughout the day, commencing at 11am, 1pm, 3pm, and 6pm.
The participants – all Balmain or Rozelle based boutiques – include Living Silk, Banity, Bella Emporio, Kostula, Leona Edmiston, and Shoes in the Attic.
The Town Hall will also serve as the starting point for Saturday’s fashion shopping tours during which a stylist will show tour participants the best shopping destinations in the area and how to choose the best pieces for their wardrobes.
This year’s Art and Fashion Week is the inaugural event. It is part of a series of three major local cultural festivals initiated by the Balmain Rozelle Chamber of Commerce with the support of Leichhardt Council.
“The events will include Christmas in July and Food Week in addition to Art and Fashion,” said Ms Jackson.
“We hope that this program will bring the local community closer together and attract people to the area.”
Balmain Rozelle Art and Fashion Week runs Monday 14th to Sunday 20th March. Bookings are essential for many activities and can be made through the website www.artandfashionweek.com.au
