A BURST of creativity has swept across Macleay Island with the opening of the new $2 million Macleay Island Arts Centre (MIAC), which is already proving a hit with locals and visitors.
Officially launched earlier this month by Redland City Mayor Jos Mitchell, the centre’s first month has been marked by a series of lively events and exhibitions that have brought the community together in celebration of art, performance and storytelling.
More than 130 people attended the launch, which was followed by a wearable art parade, with eye-catching entries now on display in the centre’s gallery.
The first major exhibition, The Land and Waters Where We Meet, features artwork and pottery by members of the centre and children involved in the Clay Kids program.
Another exhibition, What Is Art, is currently on show in the centre’s Christopher Gilbert Gallery.
MIAC co-president Catherine Marsh said the centre was already delivering on its promise to be a creative and cultural hub for the island and the broader Redlands community.
“This is a vibrant space that’s been embraced by the community,” Ms Marsh said.
“The idea was born during Covid when President Christopher Gilbert wrote a proposal on the benefits of art for community wellbeing.”
The proposal caught the attention of Bowman ALP candidate Donisha Duff, who passed it on to Federal Member for Fenner Andrew Leigh.
In 2023, Dr Leigh pledged $1.5 million towards the project, which was later increased to $2 million and confirmed by the Federal Government in early 2024.
The centre includes multiple gallery spaces, a cafe and bar, an outdoor deck area, pottery workroom and flexible art spaces.
It also has full disability access, and one gallery is available for private exhibitions by members.
Run by about 12 volunteers, the centre has already attracted strong community support, with growing membership and a packed calendar of events.
Coming up is by Heroes and Villains, a night of theatre and performance art on June 28.
The performance will bring to life characters from island history, including an oyster inspector and Tom Shea, after whom the island wetlands are named.
“It will be a night of theatre, performance and song created by some of the island’s inspirational writers,” Ms Marsh said.
On July 5, MIAC will host a live painting competition, with about eight finalists painting the centre’s waterfront over four hours.
Judging will be conducted by Redland Art Gallery director Kerry-Anne Farrer, Redland Arts Alliance’s May Shepherd, and landscape artist Robin Wilson.
“People can come and sit on the deck and enjoy the activity,” Ms Marsh said.
The centre is open from 10am to 3pm, seven days a week.
Entry is free and a bus is available to collect mainland visitors from the ferry.
Bookings can be made by calling 0481 116 955.
