A new documentary celebrating the artists, makers and musicians who help shape Albany's creative identity will premiere at Albany Town Hall this August as part of the Albany 2026 program.
In the Making, created by local filmmaker Josephine Jay, offers an intimate look inside the studios, workshops and creative lives of some of the region's best-known artists, revealing how place, people and imagination come together to create something uniquely Albany.
Rather than focusing solely on finished works, the film explores the often unseen process of making and the connection between creativity and place.
Josephine said the idea for the film grew from a long-held fascination with Albany's instrument makers and the way creative work is influenced by its surroundings.
"For many years, I have been interested in the work of local luthiers – makers of musical instruments – in Albany. Thinking about their work and the way that sound comes from a place, I began considering more broadly the imprint creative works have had on the geography of Albany, and the ways this place itself informs our own creative offerings."
The documentary features a diverse range of local creatives, including Torbay Glass, Sue Codee, Gary Tonkin, Eddy Jay, Sally Pell, Semblance and more, highlighting the breadth and depth of artistic practice across the region.
Josephine said Albany's creative community is both thriving and deeply connected.
"There is extraordinary talent in this region. People offer something wonderful to each other and the world through the making of art, performance and creative works."
"Though we're remote, we do not live in isolation. Albany and its people are connected to stories, ideas and energies beyond borders. Yet there are sounds and visions that are unique and important to this place and our dialogue with the land and waters."
Presented as part of Albany 2026, the film also invites audiences to reflect on the role creativity plays in helping communities understand themselves and their history.
"Through the works of artists and creatives, we come to understand more about each other and the place in which we live. During Albany 2026, we have cause to reflect on what Albany means to us and our community, and how we can care for and connect to people and place."
She said creativity has the power to transform the way people experience their surroundings.
"Art creates space and a way to connect, deepening our relationships with self, environment and each other. It can be transformational."
The screening will be more than a film premiere, with visitors invited to enjoy live music performed on locally made instruments, along with displays by local artists, makers and community groups before and after the screening.
Josephine hopes audiences leave inspired not only by what they have seen, but by what they might create themselves.
In the Making will screen at Albany Town Hall on Saturday 8 August. Doors open at 2pm for live music and exhibitions, with the film commencing at 3pm. The free event is open to all ages, however bookings are essential.
