There aren’t many things more inspirational than an artistic masterpiece, especially when it speaks to you through the voices and perspective of many.
In the Emerald Art Gallery, high profile exhibitions are taking place with a track record of bringing arts to the Emerald community that dates back to more than two decades ago.
Featuring impressive spaces that are large and bright with high ceilings, the Emerald Art Gallery certainly reflects a world standard of art galleries. The gallery’s premier art event – The Central Highlands Regional Council Annual Art Awards – takes place in August each year, while other feature exhibitions that are equally as impressive occur seasonally.
At the moment, there are two main features happening in the Emerald Art Gallery.
The Little Bird Postcard Project
An inclusive and adventurous approach to art, Mackay artists Natalie Field and Karen Hurford pondered upon the idea of engaging a community based venture of art.
Titled the Little Bird Postcard Project, the project holds true to its name. Participation was encouraged across people from all walks of life, with different abilities and experiences, to contribute in creating an original bird-themed postcard sized art piece using any medium.
The project was open to all those interested, with an overwhelming support of more than 900 artworks from all over the nation as well as coming in from beyond Australia’s borders.
Birds have always been a fascinating creature, often inspiring countless ideas, innovations and creations. Humans have always had a level of affinity towards birds, which is where the project got its theme from. A diverse beauty in a creature that has become a popular centre of attention for artists all around the world, crossing cultures and social groups without any restrictions or limitations.
The fascinating art pieces tell a story, each on its own, through the use of particular styles and mediums, down to each paintbrush stroke. From intricate designs that seem so life-like to simple portrayals of birds in the limelight, you could easily spend a few hours admiring and dissecting each artwork in attempts to discover the story behind it.
The Little Bird Postcard Project is on exhibit in the Emerald Art Gallery from 16 January 2021 to 24 February 2021, and is an art exhibition in Emerald that you simply won’t want to miss.
This exhibition features the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artwork created by young individuals from the Mackay region.
A travelling exhibition, the NAIDOC Youth Art Exhibition tells the story of culture and history, imprinted upon colour and creativity. It is the world seen from the eyes of the young ones, and through art, we have the chance to see their depictions too.
Open to the public from 8am to 4pm 20 January 2021 to 23 February 2021, the NAIDOC Youth Art Exhibition is being held on the CQU campus on Capricorn Highway. The event is sponsored by the Department of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships and the Mackay Regional Council, Mackay NAIDOC Committee, Youth Justice and Feros Care.
A unique state of the art technology immersion, the Central Highlands Regional Galleries introduce its very first online art exhibition.
Here, you have the opportunity to browse the masterpieces of many talented artists, craftworkers, photographers and artisans. From magnificent paintings, prints and photography to wearable art, jewellery and displayable ceramics, browse through the wide collection. And if you spot something you like, you may even have the opportunity to buy it!
What to do after the Emerald Art Exhibitions
Looking at art can certainly increase your appetite, so why not head to the Maraboon Tavern for a quality local meal?
Known to be one of the town’s favourite taverns, the Maraboon Tavern offers a range of culinary delights that have been created with artistic flair of the professional chefs in the kitchen. With a great range of delicacies such as premium steaks, ribs, and smoked plates to popular meals such as schnitzels, pastas and noodles, there’s something for everyone no matter what mood you are in. There is also a kids menu for the little ones, and a dedicated play area for them to burn their energy while the adults sit back, relax, and enjoy the ambiance.
You can even browse the digital art exhibition while chilling out in the tavern. With spacious seating areas, creative and welcoming decor, and an extensive range of local and imported beers, wines and spirits, you’ll be kept entertained with your appetite pleased throughout your online art exhibition browsing experience.
A dine in at the Maraboon Tavern is an absolute must when in Emerald, especially for one who appreciates art!
Banner image credit: The Little Bird Postcard Project
