Port Macquarie is a town full of life, culture and of course, art. In honour of International Artists Day, 25th October, we have explored the world of art and galleries in town to point you in the right direction. The talent in our area is absolutely outstanding, and these spaces do an amazing job of showcasing this.
Alpitye at Port
This fantastic gallery showcases the work of Indigenous artists from Central Australia. Officially opening in 2010, the space was birthed from the owners’ experience on a family holiday years before to that area, and their interest and passion for bringing this art and culture home with them to Port Macquarie. Louella and Mark invest in their relationships with the artists, spending time with them, to understand the history and culture behind the art they are seeing. The name ‘Alpitye’ is an Eastern Arrernte word meaning flowers, making reference to the diverse range of flora in central Australia. You can read more at Alpitye At Port, and find this stunning gallery at 1/19 Short St, Port Macquarie.
Glasshouse Regional Gallery
Situated in the centre of Port Macquarie, this beautiful gallery is a must-see for locals and tourist alike. Bridget Purtill, Gallery Curator, describes the space..
“Glasshouse Regional Gallery is a thriving regional hub for all things culture, creativity and the arts. This 600m2 architecturally designed gallery showcases over 20 exhibitions each year, complemented by a range of activities and events for all ages. Children are always welcome in the Gallery and activities are provided to keep them creative and busy while you enjoy the exhibitions.”
Coming up later this year is an amazing opportunity to see the Olsen & Ormandy exhibition, including everything from sculptural pieces to paintings. It will be full of fun and colour, perfect for families to add to their holiday itinerary. Local artists Beric Henderson, Vana Ford and Kerry Wheeldon are also set to be featured in a celebration of all things nature. This galley also has regular events such as Craft and Cocktail evenings, virtual reality, masterclasses and kids holiday classes. You can read more here – Glasshouse Regional Gallery – and visit the gallery at Corner of Clarence and Hay Streets, Port Macquarie.
Hastings Fine Art Gallery
This gallery is managed and curated by the Hastings Valley Fine Art Association. It features and sells the work of local artists, making it a perfect stop in on your holiday to do list. The space features art of all mediums, framed and unframed paintings, as well as beautiful locally made gift cards. All art is available for purchase and would make the perfect gift (Christmas is coming!!) or keepsake for your trip. This gallery also hosts ‘Gallery Art Groupies’, creating a collaborative space for like-minded creators and artists, as well as monthly art classes – other groups and classes coordinated by Hastings Fine Art Association are also held around the community.
You can read more here – Hastings Valley Fine Art Gallery – or visit this lovely space at 2 William Street, Port Macquarie (adjacent to the Maritime Museum).
Ultragrafik Fine Art
Ultragrafik Fine Art as established in 2015 by local artist Beric Henderson and son, Julian. It features work by both Beric and Julian, as well as artists John Scott, Steve Durbach and many more. It is a studio and gallery showcasing collectable artwork, prints, posters and greeting cards. The space has been designed to feel welcoming and warm, and the art featured plays perfectly into that. There is an impressive body of works available to buy, as well as the artists ability to take commissions, which means you don’t need to look much further for that perfect piece for your home! You can stop by and dream up something amazing right there with the artist.
Beric’s newest work will be part of the newest exhibition at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery is called ‘Symmetry of Nature’ and is an exploration of the connection between humans and the natural world – don’t miss it! You can find out more here – Ultragrafik – or visit the gallery at 4 / 25-27 Hay Street, Port Macquarie.
Wauchope Heritage Gallery
The Wauchope Heritage Gallery is located in Timbertown – a fantastic re-creation of an 1880-1910 working timber settlement. While Timbertown is a well-known and frequented tourist attraction and family day out, the gallery is also a must see. Full of locally produced arts and crafts, there is value in taking your time to stroll through the gallery and really admire the workmanship that draws on the traditional themes of Timbertown. There are a few items available for purchase, which would make the perfect keepsake for this historical experience! You can find out more here – Timbertown – or visit at 2325 Oxley Hwy, Wauchope.
Just look around…
Our region is certainly spoiled for choice when looking for treats for the eyes – and if you can’t get to one of these galleries, simply look outside! Our stunning natural landscape does not leave us wanting, from the beach to the bush there is always something beautiful to look at in Port Macquarie. We have the perfect spot for you to take in some of this amazing natural art at Jimmy’s Bar and Lounge – where the view may look like too good to be true, but absolutely isn’t! Next time you are in Aqua restaurant, take special notice of the artwork. We are so in awe of our view, we commissioned one of our members to paint it!
