By Ajay Jones
A ‘Dogtober’ themed Beaufort Street art market at Mount Lawley generated record crowds yesterday as hundreds of dogs and their owners embraced the local artistic talent.
This month, the Beaufort Street Network made the free, family-friendly event all about Perth’s favourite hounds.
Doggie treats, professional dog washers and a free photographer were available to make sure the pooches got to join in the fun.
“This is the first year we’ve done Dogtober and we will definitely be doing it every year now,” said market organiser Pam Herron.
“Adding that extra element made it a lot busier than normal which was great to see.”
Prizes were awarded to the ‘Most Beautiful Beaufort Bitch’, ‘Most Dapper Beaufort Dog’ and ‘Beaufort Street Super Pooch’.
The market provides a space for Perth’s emerging designers, artists and crafts people to showcase their work.
It is located in the car park on the corner of Barlee Street and Beaufort Street in Mount Lawley and opens on the first Sunday of every month between 9am and 1pm.
With one simple online application, Theresa Nguyen, founder of The Botanical Home which creates art pieces using plants in glass containers, took the opportunity to sell her products and create exposure for her brand.
“Today is our first time exhibiting The Botanical Home products which is quite exciting,” said Theresa.
“Meeting the other exhibitors has been amazing, there is such a good community feel here.”
“I’d love to make this a regular occurrence to showcase my products.”
With many cafés and food outlets within walking distance, the art market has attracted a group of loyal customers.
Regular visitors like Penny Taylor loves come to the art market every month.
“They always have cool stalls and delicious coffee and today we got to show off our beautiful puppy,” said Penny.
The next Beaufort Street art market will be on Sunday 1st November.
You can experience the sights and sounds of the market here, with music by Mathew Jones.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ihlHJwIuemM]