Arts North West is calling on the region’s galleries, museums, artist studios and other ‘Arts Places’ to be a part of Country Art Escapes - the New England North West regional arts trail.

“This is a great opportunity for the many artists and arts and cultural venues across the New England North West to promote themselves as part of the regional arts trail,” said Jane Kreis, Regional Arts Development Officer at Arts North West.

“Country Art Escapes will provide visitors and locals alike, with an easy way to plan a cultural tour.

It might be a day trip or a longer term tour of the region incorporating some of the best art, food, wine, festivals and accommodation in the region.”

The forum of 25 people held in Walcha last February was the first step in the process to develop the cross regional tourist initiative. Workshops were also held in Glen Innes and Gunnedah.

The art trail website domain name will be Country Art Escapes www.countryartescapes.com.au and is due to be launched in March 2012. Country Art Escapes will be promoted as a single program regionally and nationally. It will also provide a forum for artists and arts places to promote their activities and events.

“While visitors to the website will be able to plan their own tour, they will also have the option of following suggested trails, organised tours or visiting featured attractions and events,” said Ms Kreis.

“Country Art Escapes offers arts venues with unique networking and promotional opportunities.”

To be a part of Country Art Escapes, complete the Country Art Escapes Membership Agreement and Country Art Escapes Membership Form available on the Arts North West website www.artsnw.com.au - just click on the Country Art Escapes tab. For more details contact Arts North West on 02 6732 4988 or office@artsnw.com.au