Eight Regional Artists Selected for Country Arts SA’s Sought-After Nebula Program

Eight regional artists have been selected for Country Arts SA’s sought-after professional development program, Nebula, an immersive initiative designed to empower emerging visual artists from across South Australia’s regions.

Held biennially, Nebula returns in 2025 with a dynamic three-day experience in Adelaide this September. The program offers a curated series of workshops, forums, artist talks and networking events, all aimed at strengthening artistic practice, deepening creative exploration, and building vital industry connections.

This year’s Nebula artists represent a vibrant cross-section of regional South Australia, working across a wide range of mediums including painting, sculpture, illustration, photography, textiles, and fibre art:

Emma Williams – Streaky Bay, Eyre Peninsula
Karl Raams – Monash, Riverland
Kristi Biezaite – Robe, Limestone Coast
Luisa Stocco – Encounter Bay, Fleurieu Peninsula
Nathan Modra – Rockleigh, Murraylands
Rebecca Flack – Loxton, Riverland
Rose Porter – Port Augusta, Mid North
Winter Crane – Tailem Bend, Murraylands

The program enables participants to connect with each other and with leading artists, curators, and gallery directors based in metropolitan Adelaide – building networks that extend far beyond the three-day residency.

Country Arts SA Visual Arts Manager Lauren Mustillo said Nebula continues to be a highly valued opportunity for regional artists looking to take the next step in their careers.

“This year’s participants represent an exciting and diverse cross-section of the state’s creative talent. They will gain invaluable insights and connections through access to some of South Australia’s most respected visual artists, curators, and industry experts,” she said.

“For regional artists, the opportunity to connect with like-minded creatives and mentors can be game-changing. Nebula is about more than skills development – it’s about building confidence, visibility, and a sense of belonging in the wider arts landscape.”

Encounter Bay artist Luisa Stocco said she’s thrilled to be spending three days with like-minded creatives.

“I’m so excited to be with others with the same intent and passion. I love living regionally – I’ve only been living here full-time for about three years. There are artists here, but I think people come here deliberately to be on their own. I totally respect that,” she said.

“But while I’m still learning and developing my practice, I’m just really eager to collaborate and learn with people to help it grow. I’m excited for my potential – I go to sleep thinking about it, and I wake up thinking about my art making.”

Port Augusta-based artist Rose Porter said she was “speechless” to learn she’d been selected for Nebula.

“I was amazed – I couldn’t believe I had been chosen from so many applicants. I was  jumping for joy,” she said.

“I think Nebula will be really eye-opening for me. I’m so excited to have the opportunity to meet other people who do what I do. I think it will be life changing. Being accepted has already given me confidence and pride in myself.

“What I’ve heard from past participants is that it doesn’t just show you opportunities, it gives you the confidence to believe in your art and your professionalism.”

Country Arts SA Chief Executive Anthony Peluso said Nebula  is one of the key ways the organisation supports emerging artists to take the next step in their careers.

“Nebula is all about nurturing the next generation of regional visual artists by giving them the tools, connections and confidence they need to grow their practice,” Mr Peluso said.

“Emerging artists often face barriers to accessing professional development, especially in regional areas. With Nebula, we’re helping to remove those barriers – opening up new opportunities and creating a network of support that can have a lasting impact.”

The 2025 Nebula cohort joins a growing network of over 24 past participants, many of whom have gone on to exhibit across the state, secure residencies at some of Adelaide’s leading contemporary art institutions, and lead community arts initiatives.