Since then, Hill End’s rich gold-mining history, vernacular architecture, artistic heritage, colourful characters and distinctive landscape have continued to attract generations of Australian artists.

The Hill End Artists in Residence Program, managed by Bathurst Regional Art Gallery, has played an important role in ensuring that contemporary artists have access to this iconic Australian site.

Since its inception in 1994, over 300 artists from across Australia and the world have participated in the program.

In 2017, 20 artists from as far afield as Berlin, New York and London will participate in the program, including writers, painters, photographers, ceramicists, new media and sound artists, textile artists and sculptors.

For a behind-the-scenes look at the two residency cottages, and to meet our current artists in residence, both Murrays and Haefligers cottages will open to the public as part of the Hill End Historic Houses Open Day next Sunday, October 22 from 10am to 2pm.

At Haefligers Cottage, visitors can meet Dr Douglas Holleley, a New York-based photographer who has been using his time in Hill End to continue work on an extended homage to Arthur Stace, the man who wrote “Eternity” on the pavements of Sydney from the 1940s to the 60s.

Blue Mountains-based artist Adrienne Richards will be at Murrays Cottage to discuss her drawing and ceramics practice, and the influence a four-week residency in Hill End has had on her creative practice.

For artists interested in participating in the Hill End Artists in Residence Program, BRAG is currently calling for applications for the 2018 season of residencies.

Applications close on Tuesday, October 31, 2017.

For more information about the program, visit www.hillendart.com.au.