THE countdown to Arts Ablaze has begun, with preparations well underway for the event set to unearth and showcase an array of local talent.
The festival will start October 2 and run till October 6 at the Ramada Resort, Kooralbyn Valley.
Local artists to be featured in the lineup include sculptor Chris Trotter, textile creative Bec Andersen and the multi-award winning family band Haystack Mountain Hermits.
An event spokeswoman said the Scenic Rim artists would perform, educate and exhibit to an estimated 5,000 strong audience over the five-day festival, alongside other artists all unique in their creative expression.
"Chris Trotter is internationally recognised for his iconic installation 'Blumbergville Clock' centred in Boonah's main street... his work will stand front and centre next month," she said.
Mr Trotter said his works were sourced with gutsy materials often up to 100-years and he had accumulated a crazy library of eclectic objects from both around the Scenic Rim and afar.
"I love the scenery and the rural industries within our region and am always eyeing off farming machinery and scrap piles," he said.
"I like going to local clearance sales and swap meets too."
Mr Trotter said he was really looking forward to this festival being in his own backyard and the opportunity to meet and network with other artists and art bodies.
"Arts Ablaze also provides the opportunity to meet representatives from councils in other regions to discuss public art possibilities and how they can be used to promote cultural tourism," he said.
