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DISCOVERING THE LOCAL

ARTISTS GALLERY

WORDS by Maura Mancini

n a sun-soaked afternoon in Port Douglas, I find myself members Terry Johnson and Jacqueline Joosen are working on the next The Local
wandering into the Local Artists Gallery, a newly opened major group exhibition, Beyond Boundaries, set to open at the Douglas
Ospace on the mezzanine level of Port Douglas Picture Framing Shire Community Hall at the end of September.
in Craiglie. As an art lover, I am immediately drawn to the eclectic Port Douglas Artists Inc. (PDA) collaborates with the Douglas Shire Artists Gallery
collection of works on display, each piece a vibrant testament to the talent Council to organise annual exhibitions, including the Go Troppo show
and creativity thriving in the Douglas Shire. during Port Douglas Carnivale, which welcomed the Queensland Governor- celebrates the

Opened in February 2024, this temporary gallery is more than just a space General this year. This event affirms the organisation commitment

filled with art; it’s the realisation of a vision by Port Douglas Artists Inc., to meeting the community’s artistic needs and securing the future of
a non-profit organisation central to the local art scene since 2005. The visual arts in the Shire. Additionally, PDA manages the biennial Call of region’s artistic

association’s thirty eight members, including both emerging and professional the Running Tide Environmental Sculpture and Multimedia Festival,

artists, showcase a diverse range of craftsmanship, from drawing, painting, exploring environmental issues through impactful installations like Rosey soul...

weaving to sculpture, ceramics, textiles, photography, and digital art. Cunningham’s Drift, displayed in scenic locations such as Rex Smeal Park.

The artists passionately express the unique essence of the Douglas Shire These exhibitions, held at venues like the Douglas Shire Community Hall

through their work, and this dedication is evident in every creation. The and Sugar Wharf, provide a platform for showcasing local artists’ diverse PHOTOS: Clockwise from top; The Port Douglas Artists gallery showroom,

Tim Ellis at work, Her Excellency, the honourable Dr Jeannette Young and
works find inspiration from the natural beauty of Far North Queensland — talents. PDA aims to establish a permanent visual arts space in this unique PDA members, Linda Jackson AO

its landscapes, people, and unique character — creating a space where the and beautiful Shire.
region’s flourishing creativity is shared with the world.

As I explore the showroom, I am struck by the breadth of talent exhibited. “The gallery’s collection rotates quarterly, ensuring there is
From the established Linda Jackson AO, whose vibrant, landscape-inspired always something new to discover. Whether you are a local
textile art reflects a career spanning five decades, to rising star Emily or a visitor, it is a place to engage with the vibrant artistic

Oorthuysen, the youngest member and a former Young Archibald Prize community of Port Douglas”
winner, whose emotionally nuanced work hints at a bright future, each artist
tells the story of the Douglas Shire in their own unique way.

I immerse myself in the narratives behind each object, whether it is Perrin The association, led by President Chrissie McLaughlin and Secretary Janet
Morris, has also launched a new website, expanding the reach of their artists
Clarke’s intriguing still life photography, Jill Chism’s contemplative work, and ensuring this vibrant community continues to grow. Their efforts are

Tania Heben’s evocative paintings, or Gabrielle Cooney’s tactile ceramics. evident in every corner of the exhibition space.
These pieces convey a strong sense of place and a shared connection to the

region’s natural beauty, with each artist contributing uniquely to a collective As I leave the gallery, I feel a deep appreciation for the work being done by

celebration of their surroundings. Port Douglas Artists Inc. They are not just creating art; they are cultivating a

The gallery’s collection rotates quarterly, ensuring there is always something cultural legacy for the Douglas Shire. The Local Artists Gallery celebrates the

region’s artistic soul. Whether you are a local or a visitor, an art aficionado or

new to discover. Whether you are a local or a visitor, it is a place to engage simply curious, this space offers a unique and intimate glimpse into the heart

with the vibrant artistic community of Port Douglas. Here businesses, hotels, of Port Douglas’ thriving art scene.
and resorts can find opportunities for hosting exhibitions or commissioning

artworks.
Beyond the current exhibition, the gallery functions as a hub for artistic
expression and a symbol of the community’s commitment to the arts.
Many of the association’s artists have upcoming solo exhibitions in the VISIT THE GALLERY AT
region. Jill Chism’s Remnants is on display at NorthSite Contemporary 3/9 Pioneer Close, Craiglie
Arts in Cairns until mid-October 2024, while Tim Ellis is preparing for his Open Monday to Friday 9am-5pm
show Glimpses at the Cairns Art Gallery in February/March 2025. Gabrielle 0438 617 653
Cooney’s ceramics will be showcased at the Tanks in November 2025, and
84 Port Douglas Magazine & Travel Planner