Bringing colour to winter – art exhibition and free workshops in Mannum
Local artist Suzanne Brierley-Westall is bringing free workshops to Mannum throughout July.
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On Monday morning, July 7, the Arnold Art Gallery at the Mannum Visitor Information Centre opened its doors to a burst of colour and creativity with local artist Suzanne Brierley-Westall’s solo exhibition, Chasing Away the Winter Blues.
This vibrant showcase runs until July 29 and is accompanied by a series of free community art workshops held every Monday throughout the month.
A celebration of colour and resilience
The exhibition features a collection of Brierley-Westall’s signature botanic-themed paintings, reflecting a profound appreciation for nature and the uplifting power of colour.
Inspired by traditions from colder climates —where people weave bright textiles to lift spirits during bleak winters— her artworks aim to bring warmth and hope through vivid hues.
“People need the sun to feel good,” Suzanne said.
“This is my interpretation —bringing colour into winter.”
An artistic journey rooted in service
Suzanne is also a member of Mannum Creative Communities, a local group involved in various creative projects across the region.
Born in the United Kingdom, Suzanne first visited Australia in 1970 and made it her permanent home in 1993.
Her extensive artistic journey includes studies in London, France, and Australia, along with more than 50 exhibitions worldwide — two of which have been held in Mannum, including her current show.
Her life and work are deeply influenced by her Buddhist practice, which shapes her values of generosity, compassion, and community service.
“If we all give something back into the world, we make it a better place,” she shared.
These values underpin her decision to run the accompanying art workshops free of charge.
Held in the mornings and afternoons each Monday throughout July, the sessions welcome people of all ages and skill levels.
“I was born with a paintbrush in my hand. I know not everyone can express themselves with words, but they can through colour and painting,” Suzanne noted.
“These workshops are a space where people can connect, create, and heal together.”
Creativity as connection in challenging times
The workshops aim to address more than just artistic skills —they are part of an effort to counter isolation and foster community engagement during winter’s colder, quieter season.
“Winter can be a tough time for many,” Suzanne explained.
“By coming together to create, we build connections that nourish the spirit as much as the mind.”
Participants in previous workshops have praised Suzanne’s patient teaching style and the welcoming, encouraging atmosphere she cultivates.
From activism to artistic reflection
In the early stages of her career, Suzanne’s art was strongly shaped by social and political concerns, often expressed through graffiti —now commonly known as street art— as a medium for environmental and social justice commentary.
“My influences in the early days were very much of a social and political nature.
"Art as commentary—graffiti (street art) was my favourite medium,” she shared in a recent local magazine.
“This formed a meaningful part of my journey.
"My work today is the distillation of those early years.
"The mixed media techniques I have developed form the bones of my work.
"In my pieces, I try to communicate a multitude of thoughts and feelings through a diverse range of images, from abstract to conventional.”
While her focus has shifted from protest to peaceful expression, Suzanne’s art continues to explore themes of spirituality, healing, and personal growth.
"Among the works on display, some hold particularly deep meaning for the artist herself.
“My particular pieces in the collection that hold special significance for me are these lotus and water lily flowers,” she said.
“They represent peace, harmony, and wisdom.”
One of her favourite lotus-themed paintings is displayed alongside a quote:
“If we could see the miracle of a single flower clearly, our whole world would change.”
While its exact origin in Buddhist scriptures is unverified, the quote reflects the heart of Suzanne’s artistic and spiritual message —inviting us to look deeply, appreciate beauty in simplicity, and rediscover meaning through mindful observation.
Vision for Mannum’s creative future
Beyond exhibitions and workshops, Suzanne hopes to foster a lasting artistic community in Mannum.
Having founded the Picci-Ritci Art Group in Port Augusta, she is now exploring
opportunities to establish a similar collective locally.
“I plan to do another exhibition and free workshop in December of this year and January of 2026.
"I want to create a group where people can meet regularly, share ideas, and express themselves freely,” she said.
“Art should be accessible to everyone.”
Suzanne’s recent work explores nature, prayer, and family, with several pieces depicting her grandchildren, the Murray River, and meditative practices —offering emotional depth and quiet strength.
“It doesn’t matter how old you are —it’s about what’s in your heart,” she said.
Voices from the workshop
The impact of Suzanne’s workshops is clearly reflected in the dedication and enthusiasm of her students, some of whom travel long distances to attend.
Belinda, a committed participant from Christies Beach in Adelaide, makes the weekly journey to Mannum to learn from Suzanne.
“Suzanne is so easy to relate to, which makes her not only a great friend but also a truly inspiring teacher,” Belinda shared.
“The workshop caters to all skill levels,” she added.
“I’m hoping that by getting back to basics, I’ll gain more depth in the pieces I’m working on.
"The fast- paced classes also help us avoid getting stuck in perfectionism.”
But for Belinda, the experience goes beyond just art.
“Suzanne is also very kind —she knew I live far away, so she even let me stay at her house last night.
"I always look forward to coming here every Monday.”
Locally, one participant confessed initial doubts about her artistic ability, saying: “I thought I was the worst person to paint or draw —I just don’t have that DNA.
"But Suzanne’s teaching style is so natural and easy to follow, she encourages you to create from the heart with no stress, making it simple to understand and practice.
"The results surprised me.
"Looking at the drawings I’ve done under her guidance, I truly believe anyone can do it —if I can, anyone can.”
Exhibition and workshop details
- Exhibition: Chasing Away the Winter Blues
- Artist: Suzanne Brierley-Westall
- Venue: Arnold Art Gallery, Mannum Visitor Information Centre, 6 Randell Street, Mannum
- Dates: 22 June – 29 July 2025
Free Workshops (Mondays in July):
- Morning Session: 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Afternoon Session: 1:00pm – 3:00pm
A sign-up form is available at the information centre from 22nd June onward. Simply add your name to your preferred session.
All workshops are free of charge, with no prior experience necessary, materials are provided.
The initiative aims to bring the Mannum community together through creativity, colour, and connection during the heart of winter.
