Registrations are now open for the 2026 South Australian Living Artists Festival, inviting artists and venues across the state to take part in one of South Australia’s most celebrated cultural events.
Running from 1 to 31 August, SALA Festival transforms the state into a dynamic, open-access gallery, with exhibitions appearing in traditional spaces as well as cafés, wineries, retail stores and public venues. It’s a unique opportunity to experience visual art in unexpected places while supporting local creatives.
Recognised as the largest open-access visual arts festival in the Southern Hemisphere, SALA welcomes artists at every stage of their career, from first-time exhibitors to established practitioners. For audiences, it offers an accessible and enriching way to engage with South Australia’s diverse creative community.
A statewide celebration of creativity
Across metropolitan and regional South Australia, SALA creates a vibrant exhibition trail that encourages exploration and discovery. Visitors can map out their own arts itinerary, whether that means gallery hopping in the city or uncovering hidden creative spaces in regional towns.
The festival’s open-access model means there are no limits on scale or setting. From curated exhibitions to intimate open studios, every event contributes to a broader celebration of South Australian talent.
SALA CEO Bridget Alfred says the festival plays a vital role in connecting artists with audiences.
“South Australia has the most extraordinary ecosystem of highly talented artists, and SALA Festival invites all South Australian visual artists to find their audience and become part of this incredible community,” she says.
Opportunities for artists and venues
Artists and venues can now register exhibitions, events or open studios online, with early bird discounts available for those who sign up before early April. Final registrations close in early May.
Participants don’t need to have completed works at the time of registration, making it an accessible entry point for those planning new projects or exhibitions.
The festival also offers a range of awards and professional development opportunities, supporting both emerging and established artists. These include major cash prizes, mentorships and exhibition opportunities, helping to elevate South Australian talent on a broader stage.
Plan your SALA experience
For audiences, SALA Festival is an invitation to slow down and reconnect with creativity. Whether you’re revisiting favourite galleries, discovering new artists or exploring regional destinations, the month-long program offers something for every interest.
With hundreds of exhibitions taking place across the state, it’s worth planning ahead to make the most of what is one of South Australia’s most anticipated cultural events.
Event details
Event: SALA Festival 2026
Location: Various locations across South Australia
When: 1–31 August 2026
Registrations close: Wednesday 6 May 2026
Early bird deadline: Wednesday 8 April 2026
For more information: salafestival.com
