Find Your Perspective
There's a rumour that we're not a very "artsy" place. Good thing it's just a rumour. Galleries, theatre groups, nostalgia museums, sculpture festivals and indigenous performances just brush the surface of a cultural canvas that goes far deeper. As they say - art is purely a matter of perspective after all. Looking for more inspiration? Check out the cultural highlights of the Gold Coast hinterland.
arts & culture
- Free Event
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From now until 24 Nov 2024
Robina Farmers Market
Robina Farmers Market is set to debut at the Robina State High School on Sunday May 26 and promises to be a haven for all things locally sourced, artisanal, and downright delicious. Picture this for your Sunday morning: strolling rows of stalls brimming with vibrant produce from Fruitopian Delight, freshly baked bread from Well Bread & Pastry wafting its irresistible aroma, jars of Black Dog Honey glistening in the sunlight, and the rich, comforting scent of freshly brewed coffee from Mirabelle Vintage Caravan Coffee lingering in the air. But it’s not just about the food. There will be a whole range of sellers, with naturopathy stalls promoting wellness, homewares to spruce up your living space, and live music to serenade your senses from upcoming young musicians from Robina State High School. What sets this market apart is its commitment to fostering a direct connection between food and community. The market is a true family affair, with founders Tania and Peter Robb wrangling their children, and even their daughter-in-law Lexi, to be a part of the creation of this new market. Fuelled by Peter’s culinary expertise as a chef, and a shared belief that food is love, the market aims to bring locally sourced, quality produce to all. Lexi said: “Creating a space for local farmers, producers and the community to come together is such an awesome feeling – we want this market to be a community hub!” The grand opening on Sunday May 26 promises to be a celebration of community spirit. Kicking off at the crack of dawn at 6:00 am until the late morning at 11:30 am, councillor Dan Doran will officially inaugurate this culinary extravaganza at 7:30 am, followed by toe-tapping tunes from 16-year-old Brock Drinkwater to set the mood. More than just a marketplace, the Robina Farmers Market aims to be a bustling hub where neighbours gather to revel in the bounty of the land and the skill of artisans. It’s a place to forge connections, savour flavours, and celebrate the vibrant tapestry of Robina’s community. Some other of the local producers featured will be beloved Chocolate Drip, Shroom Brothers, The Farmer’s Wife, Sunsz, Che Bo, Zaya Pet Collective and more. So mark your calendars, spread the word, and get ready to embark on a delicious journey every Sunday at the Robina Farmers Market – the freshest flavours and friendliest sellers await.
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From now until 28 Dec 2025
HOTA Farmers and Artisan Market
The HOTA Markets are one of the Gold Coast's most vibrant community markets, held every Sunday morning, in the iconic HOTA precinct. Like the Gold Coast itself, we're a celebration of independence and lifestyle! They are passionate about local farmers, makers, bakers and growers, we like knowing where our goods come from, and we love supporting new and emerging small businesses. The markets are part of the fabric of the Gold Coast, they're proud to support and foster local artists and live music, as well as supporting social causes representing the local community. From 6 am to 11:30 am each Sunday HOTA comes alive with in-season farm-fresh produce, delicious artisan foods, boutique fashion and handcrafted wears. All nestled against the backdrop of Evendale Lake and the stunning HOTA landscape.
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From now until 04 Jan 2025
Here and Now: Gold Coast Triennial
Here and Now: Gold Coast TriennialA contemporary art exhibition exploring the depth and dynamism of the Gold Coast’s creative community. Be immersed in the ‘Here and Now’ with an extraordinary collection of works of art by 42 artists who are deeply connected to our city. Explore seven interconnected spaces featuring works ranging from medium scale installations, video and sculpture to 2D works, created by an exciting snapshot of artists from across the Gold Coast. Held every three years at HOTA Gallery, the Gold Coast Triennial is thought-provoking, irreverent and playful, evoking a contemplative atmosphere. Spanning generations, personal histories and career experience, the exhibition unveils the depth and dynamism of the Gold Coast creative community. Entry is free. Exhibition Major Partner Bendigo Bank Community Bank Paradise Point and Pimpama-Ormeau
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From now until 17 Nov 2024
Desert Digs Vintage Fashion & Art Market
Desert Digs Markets is Burleigh Heads favourite vintage, seconds and art market. Held at Mo's Desert Clubhouse, enjoy their Southern American food truck, and cocktail bar while you rummage through over 25 clothing & art stalls Every 6th Sunday, 12-3PM. Have a label, or just too many clothes in your wardrobe? Book your stall via the Mo's Desert Clubhouse website.
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07 Oct 2024
Kingdom of Kindness
Kingdom of KindnessArtist Abdul Abdullah invites you to visit his Kingdom of Kindness. This is a special place where everyone belongs. You can make friends with the rock characters in his paintings and help to bring them to life with your creativity. Explore connections and emotions in friendly, fun and playful ways in HOTA’s Children’s Gallery. ‘I like to imagine the rocks have existed for a very long time, and we are only just discovering them ... they have been waiting for us and are pleased to see us.’- Abdul Abdullah Presented by HOTA, Home of the Arts with Abdul Abdullah
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12 Oct 2024
Surfers Paradise Architectural Walk: Iconic 1960s & 1970s Apartment Towers
Explore the architectural history of Surfers Paradise on the South of Elkhorn walking tour.South of Elkhorn: Landmark 1960s and 1970s apartment towers of Surfers ParadiseExplore the architectural history of Surfers Paradise on the South of Elkhorn walking tour. This guided walk will take you through some of the most iconic 1960s and 1970s apartment towers that helped shape the Gold Coast’s skyline and lifestyle.Discover the stories behind these bold designs and how they represented a new era of coastal living. Perfect for architecture enthusiasts and anyone interested in the Gold Coast’s vibrant history, this walking tour will showcase the landmark buildings that defined a golden age of development in Surfers Paradise.Tour Leader: Dr Rosemary Kennedy LFAIADr Rosemary Kennedy has a substantive background as an architect, and is a passionate advocate for well-designed climatically-responsible cities for a liveable and just future. Dr Kennedy believes it is imperative that design skills are focussed on sustainability, resilience and beauty, nurtured for the long term benefit of all.Dr Kennedy established the SubTropical Cities Consultancy in 2017 to collaborate with planning, architecture and urban development organisations to complement their climate-responsive approaches to city design and architecture. Formerly I led research and engagement at Queensland University of Technology Centre for Subtropical Design.COST: On Sale Sep 22 at 9:00 AM
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12 Oct 2024
Tour of Tugun Hill House - Saturday 12 October
Enjoy an architect-led tour of Tugun Hill House: A Modernist retreat blending architecture with coastal landscape.Tugun Hill House: A Modernist Retreat Blending Architecture with Coastal LandscapeDesigned by Studio Locale Architects, Tugun Hill House redefines coastal living by creating a secluded residential retreat that connects harmoniously with its natural surroundings while offering privacy for its residents. Positioned to take full advantage of the sweeping views over the southern Gold Coast coastline, this house challenges traditional beachside home design, drawing on the Gold Coast’s rich history of modernist architecture while honoring the original character of the suburb.From the street, the home presents a series of simplistic forms integrated into the hillside. The structure – comprising the garage, pool, and house – sits thoughtfully back in the landscape, respecting the residential scale of the neighborhood. Inside, these forms enhance privacy without sacrificing the expansive coastal views. The design concept envisions the house as an eyrie perched on the hill, allowing residents to control their interaction with the outside world and maintain seclusion from neighbors and passersby.While the elevated position offers stunning vistas, it also exposes the house to the coastal elements. To address this, Studio Locale Architects designed the house to include secluded interior spaces where residents can retreat, all while still enjoying the breathtaking natural surroundings. A north-facing, airy courtyard offers a private connection to the garden, while the long verandah encourages movement through the home and enhances ventilation and sun shading. These design elements create a natural flow through the property, responding dynamically to changing weather conditions.In terms of materiality, Tugun Hill House breaks away from the typical coastal aesthetic. The architects took inspiration directly from the site, creating a unified relationship between the house and its surroundings. The clay footing of the site is echoed in the rendered base, while the charcoal timber cladding harmonizes with the treed backdrop. Landscaping in complementary tones further strengthens the connection between the natural environment and the architecture.Tugun Hill House doesn’t just fit into the coastal typology – it carves out its own identity. This architectural retreat embraces sunlight, rain, and wind while fully appreciating the site’s greatest attribute: the view. Through its innovative design, Studio Locale Architects offers a bold and alternative vernacular for coastal homes on the Gold Coast, showcasing a perfect blend of modernism, natural beauty, and architectural ingenuity.Tours run on Saturday and Sunday and last for 25-30 minutes. COST: On Sale Sep 22 at 9:00 AM
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13 Oct 2024
Tour of Tugun Hill House - Sunday 13 October
Enjoy an architect-led tour of Tugun Hill House: A Modernist retreat blending architecture with coastal landscape.Tugun Hill House: A Modernist Retreat Blending Architecture with Coastal LandscapeDesigned by Studio Locale Architects, Tugun Hill House redefines coastal living by creating a secluded residential retreat that connects harmoniously with its natural surroundings while offering privacy for its residents. Positioned to take full advantage of the sweeping views over the southern Gold Coast coastline, this house challenges traditional beachside home design, drawing on the Gold Coast’s rich history of modernist architecture while honoring the original character of the suburb.From the street, the home presents a series of simplistic forms integrated into the hillside. The structure – comprising the garage, pool, and house – sits thoughtfully back in the landscape, respecting the residential scale of the neighborhood. Inside, these forms enhance privacy without sacrificing the expansive coastal views. The design concept envisions the house as an eyrie perched on the hill, allowing residents to control their interaction with the outside world and maintain seclusion from neighbors and passersby.While the elevated position offers stunning vistas, it also exposes the house to the coastal elements. To address this, Studio Locale Architects designed the house to include secluded interior spaces where residents can retreat, all while still enjoying the breathtaking natural surroundings. A north-facing, airy courtyard offers a private connection to the garden, while the long verandah encourages movement through the home and enhances ventilation and sun shading. These design elements create a natural flow through the property, responding dynamically to changing weather conditions.In terms of materiality, Tugun Hill House breaks away from the typical coastal aesthetic. The architects took inspiration directly from the site, creating a unified relationship between the house and its surroundings. The clay footing of the site is echoed in the rendered base, while the charcoal timber cladding harmonizes with the treed backdrop. Landscaping in complementary tones further strengthens the connection between the natural environment and the architecture.Tugun Hill House doesn’t just fit into the coastal typology – it carves out its own identity. This architectural retreat embraces sunlight, rain, and wind while fully appreciating the site’s greatest attribute: the view. Through its innovative design, Studio Locale Architects offers a bold and alternative vernacular for coastal homes on the Gold Coast, showcasing a perfect blend of modernism, natural beauty, and architectural ingenuity.Tours run on Saturday and Sunday and last for 25-30 minutes. COST: On Sale Sep 22 at 9:00 AM
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19 Oct 2024
Dance Force Elite Academy Showcase
Dance Force Elite Academy ShowcaseThe next generation is here! Dance Force proudly presents the 2024 Elite Academy Showcase. Witness the hard work and dedication of these talented students as they balance schooling and dance, showcasing their commitment and skill.
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23 Oct 2024
Waru - journey of the small turtle
Waru - journey of the small turtleUnder the star-illuminated skies of the Torres Strait, a green turtle navigates her way back to the beach where she was born. The season has started, the turtles are returning to nest, and soon the island will welcome a new generation of hatchlings - amongst them, our small turtle friend, Migi! In Bangarra’s first dedicated work for children, join our heroine Migi as she undertakes a journey of discovery and survival. A contemporary saltwater Lagaw Kazil (Island Children) story inspired by the totemic system of the green turtle, Waru - journey of the small turtle is an interactive and immersive introduction to Torres Strait Islander culture and dance for 3-7-year-olds. Created by Stephen Page, together with Hunter Page-Lochard and Bangarra alumni Dancers and Choreographers Sani Townson and Elma Kris, Waru provides teachers, parents and caregivers with a unique opportunity to open up conversations about climate change, caring for the environment, and the traditional cultural values of respect and reciprocity. Waru – journey of the small turtle has been generously supported by the Girgensohn Foundation, the Knights Family Jabula Foundation and the Restart Investment to Sustain and Expand (RISE) Fund – an Australian Government initiative. This project is supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland.
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31 Oct 2024
Dark Illusions Experience
Cavill Lane’s The Haunted Passage – Doomsday & Matt Hollywood present Dark Illusions Experience The aftermath of Doomsday is near, where dark illusions and the unknown come to life for one night only. This Halloween, your invited you to take a journey into the darkness of spooky scares and become hauntingly mesmerized. This must attend, exclusive experience is one of it's kind so get in quick and secure your spot as tickets are limited. Get ready to make your way through haunted entrance into a dark and spooky passage of surprises design to entertain and scare. Once you make it out alive, take a seat and settle in for one progressive and very impressive Dark Illusions show by the international acclaimed Matt Hollywood. Ticket includes one entryway walk through Haunted Maze and Dark Illusions show. Show times and bookings are on the hour. Please arrive before doors open to secure entry, wait times may very. Experience is approx. 20mins. Recommended 15+. Please see details on website. FX such as low lighting, smoke effects, startle scares, strobe lights, loud noises may be in use. Please read full warnings for entry on the website before purchase.
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02 Nov 2024
Christmas Markets - Summer Land Camels
Experience the best of a boutique country market and get a start on your Christmas shopping! With free admission, come and support local Scenic Rim producers and businesses, as well as others from around Southeast Queensland. Eat and shop for Christmas gifts, have a great time with friends, enjoy the stunning views from the property, and relax to the sounds of a local entertainer while you browse through the stalls. There will also be a very special guest appearance by Santa! Camel rides can be booked on the day. Plenty of on-site parking available. Sorry, no pets allowed.
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01 Dec 2024 - 03 Nov 2024
The Makers Market at Circle On Cavill
New market alert Gold Coast! They are thrilled to announce that The Market Folk is expanding south and bringing its vibrant community of makers and artists to Circle on Cavill, Surfers Paradise. Already a beloved name in Brisbane, The Market Folk is known for its carefully curated markets that spotlight locally made products and support talented local artists. Now, it’s your turn to experience the magic. Join them at a brand new market on the Gold Coast, where you can browse a wide selection of unique, handmade goods, from fashion and homewares to art and jewellery, all created by talented artisans from the local community. This is the perfect opportunity to discover something special, support small businesses, and connect with the creative spirit of the region. They'll also have live music throughout the day, featuring some of the best local musicians. Soak in the vibrant atmosphere, enjoy the tunes, and celebrate the best of what the Gold Coast has to offer. Vendors are welcome to apply online. Don't miss out on this exciting event that brings together the best of local creativity and culture. See you there!
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05 Nov 2024
Melbourne Cup The Island Gold Coast
When more is the only way to go. Expect more, more, more — with heaps of ways to party this Melbourne Cup Day across the whole of the Island Gold Coast.
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09 Nov 2024 - 15 Feb 2025
Anna Carey’s Magic + Memory: make me a home
Anna Carey’s Magic + Memory: make me a homeOur new Children’s Gallery exhibition is your home away from home at HOTA. Gold Coast artist Anna Carey creates miniature models of houses and the rooms inside them. Her work has been spectacularly brought to life in an oversized model created for play and daydreams. What is real? Where could you use your imagination? There are magical and memorable moments to discover as we invite you to ‘make a home’ in our Children’s Gallery. Entry is free. Presented by HOTA, Home of the Arts with Anna Carey Exhibition Major Partner Bendigo Bank Community Bank Paradise Point and Pimpama-Ormeau
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14 Dec 2024 - 22 Mar 2025
Josephine Ulrick and Win Schubert Photography Award 2024
Josephine Ulrick and Win Schubert Photography Award 2024Celebrate the best of contemporary Australian photography at HOTA Gallery. The Josephine Ulrick and Win Schubert Photography Award 2024 presents a diverse selection of artworks by artists at the forefront of photographic media. As a survey of contemporary practice, the award plays an important role in representing the ongoing evolution of photography and the ways in which artists use it to create striking and memorable images. As the richest prize for photography in Queensland, the $25,000 acquisitive award is open to all Australian artists working in the broad medium of contemporary photography. Visitors to the exhibition will also get to choose their favourite artwork for the $5,000 People’s Choice Award. Since the Award’s inception, over 60 works have been acquired by HOTA, resulting in a celebrated collection that reflects shifts in the cultural and social landscape over two decades. Previous winners include Wani Toaishara, Tamara Dean, Shaun Gladwell, Darren Sylvester, Lynne Roberts-Goodwin, Polixeni Papapetrou, Polly Borland and Cherine Fahd. This exhibition is free to visit and is open 10am-4pm daily until 30 Mar 2025. Presented by HOTA, Home of the Arts
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY
Experience Gold Coast acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we are situated, the Kombumerri families of the Yugambeh Language Region.
We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, and recognise their continuing connections to the lands, waters and their extended communities throughout Southeast Queensland.