Winter Exhibitions On Show Now
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.
On now until 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.
On now until 9 November
The artworks in Worlds Around Us by Sammy Hawker are interactions between the artist and the more-than-human worlds she encounters. Following the humpback whale cycle of migration along the east coast of Australia, the works explore interspecies dialogue, material presence and how a practice of curiosity cultivates empathy and care.
Winter Exhibitions Coming Up
16 August – 2 November
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.
15 August – 30 November
Regional artist, Dean Stewart, deconstructs and rearranges found objects to evoke emotion and memory in his latest solo exhibition, Material Memory.
A Tweed Regional Gallery initiative and outcome of the PLATFORM program.
15 August – 9 November
Water connects us all by Arakwal Bundjalung artist Nickolla Clark celebrates the traditional practices of Bundjalung people and their rich cultural heritage associated with water. Clark was the recipient of the 2024 Bundjalung Award, Wollumbin Art Award, and her resulting solo exhibition shares important messages taught by her ancestors – the matriarchs who strongly advocated for the health of Country.
The Bundjalung Award, Wollumbin Art Award, is sponsored by the Tweed Regional Gallery Foundation Ltd. A Tweed Regional Gallery initiative.
Previous Winter Exhibitions
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.
Maria Fernanda Cardoso: Spiders of Paradise is an exhibition developed and toured by the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia.
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.
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.
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.
