Artist credit: Sonja Bowden

This June and July, The Pop-Up Project is thrilled to bring together the soulful artistry of Kate Friesenecker and the precision of Sonja Bowden in an intimate art exhibition at Centennial Vineyards – a beautiful pairing of creativity and place. Nestled in the heart of Bowral, the Centennial Vineyards Cellar Door offers not only fine wine and breathtaking views but a vibrant showcase of local talent in partnership with our artist collective.

Whether you’re a lover of landscapes, captivated by colour pencil realism, or simply looking for a weekend escape that feeds your senses, this exhibition invites you to slow down, sip something special and savour the art of the Southern Highlands.

A Meeting of Minds and Mediums

Kate Friesenecker brings her deep appreciation for art’s healing potential into every oil painting she creates. A qualified art therapist and experienced artist, Kate paints primarily landscapes – not just capturing a view, but evoking a feeling. Her works are contemplative, emotive and alive with energy.

From managing galleries to volunteering as an art teacher in Africa and working in schools for children with learning difficulties, Kate’s journey reflects a strong belief in art as a transformative tool. After stepping away from a corporate career in marketing and economics, she now channels her full energy into painting and art therapy, working from her cozy Bundanoon studio.

“My great love is art,” Kate shares. “I am constantly in awe of the power it has to communicate, heal and transform. It helps you see differently and feel more deeply.”

Her works in this exhibition are all oil on canvas, unframed and unfiltered, just like the stories they tell.

Sonja Bowden, known professionally as SB Illustrations, offers a striking contrast – and perfect complement – with her hyper-realistic coloured pencil artworks. Formerly a graphic designer and junior art director, Sonja now devotes her time to illustrating animals in breathtaking detail. Her lifelong bond with horses and deep love of wildlife pulse through her work, bringing emotion and character to every hair, feather and eye she draws.

Having spent time in the thoroughbred industry, Sonja’s artistic expression is informed by her close observation and reverence for the natural world. Her illustrations have been recognised in major art prizes and are held in private collections across Australia.

Together, Kate and Sonja demonstrate the diversity and depth of artistic expression found in the Southern Highlands. While one paints with the broad emotion of oils and the other with the precision of pencils, both offer viewers a moment of pause – to reflect, reconnect and be moved.

A Vineyard Venue Worth Visiting

There’s no better setting for an art exhibition at Centennial Vineyards than the Cellar Door itself. With panoramic views, historic charm and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s the ideal place to explore local culture while enjoying world-class wines.

Open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, with the last wine tastings starting at 4 pm, Centennial Vineyards invites you to take your time. Wander through the exhibition, speak with the team about the art, and settle in for a tasting flight or bottle shared with friends.

Whether you’re a local or visiting the Highlands for a weekend escape, this immersive art and wine experience is a celebration of all the senses.

Book your wine tasting now: https://www.exploretock.com/centennial/
Visit:  www.centennial.net.au 
Address: 252 Centennial Rd, Bowral NSW 2575

Art, Community and Conversation

At the heart of this collaboration is The Pop-Up Project’s mission: to spotlight local talent and build bridges between community and creativity. Exhibitions like this bring together diverse voices and styles – not just for the sake of art, but to remind us how much richer life becomes when we pause to appreciate beauty, emotion and connection.

Kate and Sonja’s works are more than visual statements; they’re invitations. To breathe. To reflect. To feel. And maybe, just maybe, to see the world a little differently. So come and experience this art exhibition at Centennial Vineyards and let the art move you.