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“Light on the Reef ” Janet Morris

“Janet Morris exhibited along Portobello Road in London, bringing a slice of Far
North Queensland to an iconic international art precinct. Sam Mathews received
the Flying Arts Queensland Remote Award, with exhibitions in Brisbane and
Bundaberg, a milestone for artists working outside metropolitan centres.”

community. The fair provides an important commercial platform connecting and a mindful relationship with the environment, embracing the idea that we are
artists directly with collectors and curators. part of a larger ecological system and should “tread lightly.” Others explore more
Back in Port Douglas, May is a key moment on the calendar. From 18th to 25th conceptual territory, using abstraction to investigate contrasts such as negatives
May, the much-loved GO TROPPO exhibition returns to the historic Sugar and positives, fragmentation and disruption, often creating visually striking
Wharf. Known for its relaxed, salon-style format, the show brings together a works that also invite deeper reflection.
diverse mix of artists and mediums, offering visitors an accessible entry point Supporting this broader visibility is Art in Transit, an online platform showcasing
into the local art scene. Far North Queensland artists. Featuring both established and contemporary
“It’s a real reflection of the group,” McLaughlin said. “You see a bit of everything, practitioners, including Ray Crooke, Tania Heben and Diana Crooke, it
different styles, different approaches, but all connected to this place.” connects regional work with a wider audience of collectors and curators.
Unlike urban art centres, where trends can shift rapidly, Port Douglas offers A new initiative, PDA Studio Visits, will soon invite visitors into working
something slower, more grounded. Artists here are shaped by seasonality, by studios across Port Douglas, offering a rare glimpse into the creative process.
isolation, by the rhythms of weather and landscape. The wet season, in particular, Together with the upcoming Art Trails Port Douglas, it marks a shift toward
leaves its mark, transforming colour, light and mood in ways that find their way more immersive cultural experiences, where art is not just seen, but encountered
onto canvas. where it’s made. This connection to place continues to define the work.
This connection to environment runs through the work of many PDA members. Looking ahead, Chrissie McLaughlin sees potential for further growth, including
For some, it’s about coastal landscapes and plein air painting, capturing the the possibility of a dedicated contemporary gallery in Port Douglas, one that
immediacy of place through ceramic’s, weaving, oil, acrylic or watercolour. could support artists long-term and contribute to a lasting cultural presence.
For others, it’s about exploring less conventional perspectives, such as drone For now, that momentum is being built collectively. Through exhibitions,
photography, where aerial views reveal unexpected patterns and contrasts awards, touring shows and independent platforms, Port Douglas artists are
between reef and rainforest. steadily extending their reach.
Across the group, there’s also a strong diversity of ideas and approaches. Some
artists work with clay, mosaics and plants, drawing on themes of nature, solitude portdouglasartists.com.au

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