Discover a month of creativity during SALA

This August, the City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters comes alive with creativity as the South Australian Living Artists (SALA) Festival returns with a vibrant program of exhibitions, workshops, public art and immersive experiences.

From traditional drawing and contemporary sculpture to family-friendly creative workshops and behind-the-scenes artist experiences, SALA 2026 offers countless opportunities to explore, connect and be inspired by South Australia's incredible artistic talent.

Explore the Art of Drawing

Official opening: Friday 24 July 6-8pm

The Gallery at St Peters will host the major exhibition Marking Time, bringing together six contemporary artists who challenge traditional perceptions of drawing until Saturday 22 August.

Featuring works by Alex Beckinsale, Caitlin Bowe, Gregg Mitchell, Holley Rentsch, Madelin Reidy and Michael Waters, the exhibition celebrates drawing as a powerful artistic medium in its own right. From life drawing and technical illustration to tattooing and imaginative practice, each artist presents a unique interpretation of the discipline.

Visitors can also discover the outcomes of a collaborative workshop led by Alex Beckinsale and Caitlin Bowe, with participants' works showcased in the gallery foyer throughout the festival.

Three unique exhibitions under one roof

While visiting The Gallery, don't miss It's in the Bag, an intriguing exhibition by Ewa Skoczynska in Gallery 2.

Transforming humble paper bags into playful sculptural works inspired by the Dada movement, Ewa's exhibition explores texture, language and unexpected connections with humour and imagination.

In the Eastern Heath Authority Gallery, Yes You Can! celebrates creativity across generations, showcasing collaborative works by artists and their children. The exhibition highlights how artistic expression can be shared, nurtured and reimagined, while giving young artists the exciting opportunity to exhibit—and even sell—their own creations.

Celebrating local artists

Monday 20 July – Friday 21 August

Norwood Town Hall will also host A Local Showcase, featuring the work of three talented artists whose practices span vastly different mediums and perspectives.

Visitors can experience Irina Mirosnitsenko's captivating visions of outer space, Susan Long's expressive landscape abstractions and Robert Bogner's beautifully crafted metal sculptures in a colourful celebration of local creativity.

Experience public art after dark

From 7 August

A major highlight of this year's program is the installation of Rain, the City's fifth Quadrennial Public Artwork, created by local art and design team Wills Projects.

Located on Osmond Terrace, Rain tells the story of the local rain moth through an impressive sculptural installation exploring time, place, life cycles and connection to Country. Intricate lace-like wings, glowing caterpillars and illuminated ground lighting create a captivating experience both day and night, inviting visitors to pause and discover the artwork from every angle.

Get creative at Play Day

For those who love hands-on experiences, Play Day: Create and Connect at the Payneham Community Centre offers a unique opportunity to step inside artists' working studios on Saturday 8 August.

Visitors can explore four interactive creative spaces, meet practising artists, experiment with different materials and discover how ideas evolve into finished artworks. Whether you stay with one artist or explore them all, Play Day encourages everyone to get involved and unleash their creativity.

The recently refreshed Potter's Hut will also be open during the event, with members of the Adelaide Potters Club hosting demonstrations and showcasing their beautiful ceramic works.

Discover Kent Town's street art

Round out the festival with the Kent Town Street Art Walk and Talk on Saturday 29 August 12-3pm, led by local artist and Washdog Studio director Dave Court

This guided experience takes participants through Kent Town's laneways to uncover vibrant murals, hear the stories behind the artworks, watch live painting demonstrations, enjoy lunch from local businesses and finish with an exclusive tour of Washdog Studio.

Whether you're a passionate art lover, curious creative or simply looking for something different to experience this August, the City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters invites you to immerse yourself in a month of creativity, inspiration and community through SALA Festival 2026.

Find out more, visit: SALA