Discover the Creative Side of Mount Barker: Exploring the Local Arts Scene

Mount Barker may be known as the gateway to the Adelaide Hills, but it’s also home to a growing and vibrant arts and creative community. From striking public sculptures to galleries, exhibitions and local makers, the town offers plenty of opportunities to experience art while exploring its streets.

Whether you’re visiting for the day or live locally, here are some ways to discover the artistic side of Mount Barker.

Discover Public Art and Local Sculptures

One of the easiest ways to experience Mount Barker’s arts scene is simply by walking through the town centre and discovering the public art and sculptures that form part of the local landscape.

Several sculptures and artistic installations can be found around parks, civic spaces and along key walking routes. These works celebrate local history, community identity and the creative talents of artists connected to the Adelaide Hills region.

Take your time wandering through the streets and open spaces — you may be surprised by the artwork you come across.

Follow the Hills Sculpture Trail

A highlight of the region’s arts scene is the Hills Sculpture Trail, a unique outdoor gallery that stretches through towns across the Adelaide Hills and Fleurieu Peninsula. The trail features more than 25 contemporary stone sculptures created by artists from around the world during the Adelaide Hills International Sculpture Symposiums.

Many of the sculptures can be found in townships throughout the Hills, with several located right here in Mount Barker, making it easy to include them as part of your visit.

The sculptures were carved in stone during live symposium events where artists worked under the gum trees at The Cedars in Hahndorf, creating pieces that now form a permanent cultural trail linking communities, landscapes and art across the region.

Following the sculpture trail is a wonderful way to explore the Hills while discovering beautiful public artworks along the way.