Kristy Phalen
Kristie Phelan had a successful career as award-winning creative director/producer of multi-disciplinary creative projects, global TV and events before helming Australia’s oldest design centre and school for contemporary craft, Sturt Gallery & Studios. Kristie has long been an advocate for art and culture in Australia, especially in her home, the Southern Highlands – having helped raise funds and organised events to establish the SHAC,(Southern Highlands Artisans Collective), the regional gallery Ngununggula, and The Hillview Sculpture Festival.
Kristie has collaborated with her sister Phoebe for decades, producing award-winning animation, broadcast design and most recently co-producing inspiring creative education programmes, summer/winter schools, exhibitions and events at Sturt.
We are thrilled to be working together again to bring another unforgettable workshop experience to life.
Phoebe Middleton
Tutor, Florence Guide
Phoebe Middleton is a commercial artist and printmaker with over 35 years experience designing and illustrating children’s books and creating award-winning animation for global TV studios Disney and Nickelodeon.
Phoebe studied Fine Arts majoring in illustration at Underdale, SA, and since has curated and exhibited in successful solo and group shows in NSW, ACT, Tasmania and Victoria. Phoebe also spent a decade facilitating Winter and Summer School Workshops and short courses at Sturt Gallery & Studios. Her bold linocuts have been acquired for the National Gallery of Australia.
Phoebe has returned to the picturesque family farm in Exeter, Southern Highlands where she continues to teach printmaking and produce works in her barn, under the name Sugarbush Studio.
Scout Newell
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Kristy Phalen
Assistant Tutor/ Tour Organisor
Kristie Phelan had a successful career as award-winning creative director/producer of multi-disciplinary creative projects, global TV and events before helming Australia’s oldest design centre and school for contemporary craft, Sturt Gallery & Studios. Kristie has long been an advocate for art and culture in Australia, especially in her home, the Southern Highlands – having helped raise funds and organised events to establish the SHAC,(Southern Highlands Artisans Collective), the regional gallery Ngununggula, and The Hillview Sculpture Festival.
Kristie has collaborated with her sister Phoebe for decades, producing award-winning animation, broadcast design and most recently co-producing inspiring creative education programmes, summer/winter schools, exhibitions and events at Sturt.
We are thrilled to be working together again to bring another unforgettable workshop experience to life.
Phoebe Middleton
Tutor, Florence Guide
Phoebe Middleton is a commercial artist and printmaker with over 35 years experience designing and illustrating children’s books and creating award-winning animation for global TV studios Disney and Nickelodeon.
Phoebe studied Fine Arts majoring in illustration at Underdale, SA, and since has curated and exhibited in successful solo and group shows in NSW, ACT, Tasmania and Victoria. Phoebe also spent a decade facilitating Winter and Summer School Workshops and short courses at Sturt Gallery & Studios. Her bold linocuts have been acquired for the National Gallery of Australia.
Phoebe has returned to the picturesque family farm in Exeter, Southern Highlands where she continues to teach printmaking and produce works in her barn, under the name Sugarbush Studio.
Scout Newell
Assistant Tutor
Scout Newell is a Southern Highlands local and Assistant Tutor at Sugarbush Studio, where she brings a warm, grounded presence and a passion for creative learning. With a deep appreciation for the region’s artistic community, Scout supports students in developing their skills across various mediums, fostering confidence and curiosity in the studio environment. Her commitment to nurturing creativity makes her a valued part of the Sugarbush team.