Acclaimed Australian artist Archer and Victoria state Creswick Brass Band are celebrating the nomination of 'Love Songs from the Divine Church of the Open Sky' for a Folk Alliance Australia Award for 'Best Community Cultural Project of the Year'.

In association with Big Mabel Management and Skunkworks Community it was initially presented at CresFest 2026 which brought together professional artists and regional musicians in a celebration of music, storytelling and community.

Blend

Archer's reflections blend folk, soul and contemporary storytelling in powerful live performances which celebrates community, resilience and belonging. His collaborative projects bring together professional artists and local musicians, inspiring meaningful cultural experiences.

Directed by Phillipa Edwards OAM, the performance blended his contemporary song writing with the help of Musical Director Katrina Bird who prepared the Creswick players with a willingness to explore new artistic possibilities.

The project also saw contributions by acclaimed trumpet player and composer, Eugene Ball, whose arrangements and jazz improvisations helped create the unique musical landscape.

This project was built on trust, generosity and a shared love of music. Working with the Creswick Brass Band was an absolute joyArcher

Honoured

"We're incredibly honoured to receive this nomination," Phillipa Edwards OAM, told 4BR. "Open Sky demonstrates what can happen when professional artists and community musicians create together."

Archer was certainly delighted by the outcome. "It's such an honour to have been nominated for this award. This project was built on trust, generosity and a shared love of music. Working with the Creswick Brass Band was an absolute joy."

The nomination has also helped launch a new Regional Arts Victoria-supported tour that will bring the project to communities across Victoria.

Thanks

Phillipa added: "Skunkworks Community sincerely thanks Judy Turner, Founder and President of CresFest, and Stella Savy for recognising the project through this national award nomination and congratulates everyone who helped bring this remarkable collaboration to life.