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What's On This Winter at the Tweed Regional Gallery

26 June, 2025

What's on this winter at tweed regional gallery banner

If you’re spending time in The Tweed this Winter, make space on your itinerary for a visit to the Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre, regarded as one of Australia’s leading art-spaces. 

With its picturesque setting in the lush Tweed Valley, gorgeous cafe and dining space and thought-provoking exhibitions, it’s the perfect place to slow down, explore and take in some local and national art. 

Here’s a look at what’s on this Winter at the Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre: 

What’s On This Winter


Painting Life: Margaret Olley and Works from the Collection

On now until 31 August

Painting Life: Margaret Olley and Works from the Collection celebrates the vibrant still life paintings of Margaret Olley (1923–2011) from the Tweed Regional Gallery collection, shown alongside contemporary responses to her home-studio re-creation at the Margaret Olley Art Centre.

This thoughtful exhibition offers a fresh lens on Olley’s enduring legacy—through intimate interiors, colourful compositions and the perspectives of artists inspired by her life and space.

In a special highlight this Winter, the exhibition features Margaret Olley 2011 by Ben Quilty—his Archibald Prize-winning portrait—on display for the first time alongside a new suite of 11 still life works paying tribute to his mentor, friend and muse.

couple admire Margaret Olley artworks on dark blue wall


GunimaaSource – Debbie TaylorWorley & Sophie Taylor

9 May – 10 August

This collaborative exhibition by mother and daughter artists brings together clay, sculpture and mixed media works that reflect on identity, culture and Country. The artists explore connections to their Gamilaraay and European heritage and the relationship between people and the natural world. 


Maria Fernanda Cardoso: Spiders of Paradise

10 May – 3 August

Maria Fernanda Cardoso turns her lens to Australia’s peacock spiders – tiny, colourful creatures known for their elaborate mating dances. The exhibition includes detailed photographs and video works that highlight the intricacy and beauty of these fascinating native species. 


Key Rhythm – Tamara Mendels

9 May – 10 August

In this bold solo show, Tamara Mendels uses colour, pattern and texture to create abstract works that play with movement and rhythm. Expect layered surfaces and a lively, contemporary feel with warmth and energy. 

Breast Plates – Luther Cora

21 March – 28 September

Gold Coast-based artist and cultural leader Luther Cora presents a striking body of photographic and digital works exploring identity and representation. The series honours traditional adornment and raises important questions around history, culture and image-making. 


Olive Cotton Award for Photographic Portraiture

14 July – 24 September

One of the Gallery’s most anticipated events, the biennial Olive Cotton Award returns this winter. Showcasing portrait photography from across the country, the exhibition celebrates a mix of emerging and established artists. Visitors can also cast their vote for the People’s Choice Award. 

While you’re there 

Take a tour: Free guided tours run daily at 11:30am, no bookings needed. 

Stop for a bite: Apex Dining, the onsite café, serves up seasonal dishes, great coffee and stunning views across the Tweed Valley. 

Enjoy the setting: The Gallery grounds are beautiful and open to explore, with plenty of quiet spots to sit and take in the scenery. 

Plan Your Visit 

Whether you’re a regular visitor or discovering it for the first time, there’s plenty to enjoy this winter at the Tweed Regional Gallery and Margaret Olley Art Centre, especially if you’re looking for a peaceful and inspiring way to spend a day. 

The Gallery is open Wednesday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm, with free entry.  

We wish to acknowledge the Ngandowal and Minyungbal speaking people of the Bundjalung Country, in particular the Goodjinburra, Tul-gi-gin and Moorung – Moobah clans, as being the traditional owners and custodians of the land and waters within the Tweed Shire boundaries. We also acknowledge and respect the Tweed Aboriginal community’s right to speak for its Country and to care for its traditional Country in accordance with its lores, customs and traditions.