A COLOURFUL reimagining of south-east Queensland suburban life, an exploration of sustainable timber use and a showcase of local artistic talent are all part of the new exhibitions opening at the Hervey Bay Regional Gallery.

Fraser Coast Regional Council Arts spokesperson Michelle Govers said Brisbane artist Phoebe Paradise is known for her vibrant illustrations, murals and public art installations, with her new exhibition examining the often overlooked charm of suburban life.

“Burbs to the Bay reimagines south-east Queensland suburbia with vibrant streetscapes and surreal architecture, bringing the essence of subtropical Queensland to life in a colourful, dreamlike world,” Cr Govers said.

“The exhibition evokes the endless summer heat and chirping cicadas, creating a feeling of both wonder and unease.”

Cr Govers said Phoebe recently collaborated with local artists Matthew Graveson and Halle Bryant on a stunning 10-metre mural in the Hervey Bay Regional Gallery foyer as part of a mentorship program supported by the Regional Arts Development Fund.

Opening alongside Burbs to the Bay is Forest to Fibre – an exhibition highlighting cutting-edge research in sustainable timber processing and design, alongside local stores, artworks and histories.

Additionally, the inaugural Regional Spotlight exhibition will showcase artistic talent from across the Wide Bay Burnett region through painting, drawing, photography, sculpture and more.

Featured artists include Vanessa Allega, Avi Amesbury, Adam Anderson, Susan Zela Bissett, Kerri Dixon, Seinileva Huakau, Julie McGillivray, Monique Mennie, Donna Norwood and Jacinta Padgett.

All three exhibitions will run until 17 November 2024. For more details, visit www.hbrg.com.au 

The gallery is located at 166 Old Maryborough Road in Pialba, and is open Tuesday to Friday from 10am to 4pm, and weekends from 10am to 2pm.