STRADBROKE Island (Minjerrabah) is not only known for its stunning beaches and natural beauty but also for its thriving artistic community, nurtured and showcased at StraddieVarious Gallery.
Established in 2018, the gallery has become a beacon of creativity, offering local artists and artisans the opportunity to display and sell their unique handcrafted works.
The story of StraddieVarious Gallery began when two women, Deb McCann and Jacquie Holmes, met seven years ago at the Point Lookout markets.
Both selling their own creations, they realised the local artists had limited opportunities to showcase their art, as the markets only operated during peak holiday periods.
It was this realisation that sparked the idea to open a permanent space for artists and artisans to display their work year-round.
Located at the Point Lookout Bowls Club, the gallery started small, but its impact was immediate.
After a year, due to family health reasons, both Deb and Jacquie and their respective partners returned to Cleveland, where they decided to take StraddieVarious to the next level.
A new gallery opened at Raby Bay Harbourside, offering a permanent home for local artists from North Stradbroke Island, the Bay Islands, and the mainland Redlands.
Today, the gallery continues to thrive and is a key part of the cultural fabric of the Redlands Coast area.
Featuring a wide range of original artwork, StraddieVarious showcases everything from stunning paintings in various mediums and sizes to metal sculptures, ceramic works, stoneware sculptures, timber crafts, and handmade jewellery.
One of the defining features of StraddieVarious Gallery is its commitment to supporting both emerging and established artists.
“In the beginning, we were a bit liberal and wanted to help everyone, but now we’re focused on ensuring that the work we showcase is of the highest quality and properly finished. It’s all about helping the artists grow and reach their potential,” Deb said.
With space limited and a growing number of artists eager to display their work, Deb and Jacquie have learned to be discerning.
While they always aim to help local artists, they prioritise the saleability and presentation of the work.
This means that only the most polished pieces are displayed, ensuring that each item in the gallery has a chance to find its new owner.
StraddieVarious Gallery prides itself on its customer- centric approach, offering a 48-hour refund policy for any artwork purchased, provided it is returned undamaged.
Additionally, they provide layby options for customers, making it easier to invest in a piece of art and support the local community.
Beyond the artworks, StraddieVarious has also become a hub for artistic collaboration.
Deb and Jacquie have fostered an environment where artists exchange ideas, inspire each other, and learn from one another.
“It’s amazing to see how the artists connect,” Deb said.
“Some of them have learned so much from each other, and we’ve watched their work evolve over time.”
In addition to their regular collection, the gallery offers custom commissions, giving artists the opportunity to work on large-scale projects for both private and corporate clients.
“We don’t buy stock, we work directly with the artists, and that keeps the prices down,” Deb said.
Open six days a week, Tuesday through Sunday, StraddieVarious Gallery also stays open late on Friday nights, as well as coinciding with the Twilight Markets at Raby Bay Park, attracting both locals and visitors alike.
“I leave the lights on at night because it really makes the gallery pop, and it draws people in,” Deb said.
StraddieVarious Gallery has become much more than a place to buy art – it’s a space where local artists can thrive, connect and grow.
