The second Lovedale Arts Festival took place through the entire months of May and June, showcasing the wonderful talent and diversity of the people and businesses of Lovedale.

As part of the Hunter Valley Wine and Food month, wineries, restaurants and other locations throughout Lovedale became the venues for events and exhibitions such as concerts, new release wine launches, glass making, cooking classes, olive oil classes, art and sculpture exhibitions and pasta making. You could also meet the artists, attend artisan chair-making demonstrations and take home a piece of furniture made from wine barrels.

This was all held against the backdrop of the famous Lovedale Long Lunch in May and the newer Hunter Valley Wine Festival, now in its fourth year at the Lovedale Crowne Plaza.

Peter Sesselmann and Ben Sales from Lovedale Smokehouse

One of the most popular events were the art classes at Lovedale Smokehouse, open to everyone on Saturdays, under the watchful eye of well known local artist Peter Sesselman. Other highlights of the festival included an exciting concert at Adina Vineyard with “Feel the Manouche” and the fabulous Monica Trapaga and food by Emersons, while the Art Exhibition launch at Allandale Winery was a popular event featuring eight local artists, including extraordinary garden sculptures from Sam Larwill and mixed media paintings from the talented Diana Baker.

Allandale Arts Exhibition Launch