Entertainment
3 May, 2026
Artists by fellow artist
CAIRNS Art Gallery will open its doors after hours for a special evening event featuring artist Ron McBurnie on Thursday 7 May.
The Public Curator’s Building will remain open until 8pm, giving visitors the chance to experience exhibitions and attend a talk with the celebrated artist.
Mr McBurnie will discuss his current exhibition, ‘The Artist Studio’, in conversation with gallery director Angela Goddard.
The exhibition features his etchings of fellow artists at work in their studios, presented alongside carefully paired artworks by the artist sitters.
Ms Goddard said the exhibition offered a unique perspective on artistic practice.
“There’s something quietly magical about an artist who turns their gaze on other artists,” she said.
“Ron’s etchings feel like love letters to the creative life – intimate, observant and full of wit.
“Come and see what he found, then stay for a drink and a stroll through the rest of our exhibitions.
“We’re throwing open the doors, lighting up the building and inviting everyone to come and be part of it.”
Guests will also be able to enjoy drinks on the balcony and explore the gallery’s current exhibitions at their own pace.
A free guided tour will be offered, providing further insight into exhibitions on display, including Dr Christian Thompson ‘AO: House of Gold’, ‘Of This Earth: Transforming Culture and Country Through First Nations Ceramics’, a National Gallery of Australia touring exhibition and ‘Captured: Photography from the Collection’.
The event is free, with RSVPs encouraged via the Cairns Art Gallery website.
The evening program begins at 5pm with the bar opening, followed by the artist talk at 6pm, a guided tour at 7pm and the gallery closing at 8pm.
