RICArts Arthouse & Gallery
Russell Island Community Arts is a not-for-profit community arts centre and gallery, situated in the beautiful Southern Moreton Bay Islands. We provide a wide range of creative arts workshops to members and the wider community, run by established local artists. The Gallery curates an exhibition program year-round, encouraging local, inter-island and mainland visitors to enjoy this unique creative haven.
GALA OPENING! Saturday 5 September, 3pm, with awards presented at 4pm sharp
All are welcome to the opening of RICArts’ 7th Annual Art Exhibition and Competition 2027. Come and enjoy a chilled afternoon of art and community, accompanied by Jon Jass and his jazz ensemble the Cue Stick Band.
BYO drinks and a share plate
THANK YOU!
to our Sponsors Sealink Bay Islands, Bay Islands Transport and Lop Chop Chip
to our judges Shane Rendalls, Troy White and Christine Earthrowl
to Jon Jass and the Cue Stick Band
Access and Inclusion Statement
RICArts is dedicated to providing a safe, accessible and enjoyable visit for people of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities. Our venue has ramp access to the first floor office, gallery, workshop space, and accessible bathroom. The ground floor pottery studio has a step-free entry. The parking area is close to the entrances. Assistance animals are warmly welcomed throughout the property. Our volunteer staff are always happy to discuss individual needs - please contact us prior to arrival so we can work together to ensure the best possible experience.
Membership
RICArts is a membership-based organisation that warmly welcomes new members on an ongoing basis. Our goal is to have ever growing and vibrant art groups, with each member feeling encouraged to express their individual talent in a safe and community-oriented environment.
Membership Application
Becoming a member of RICArts involves agreeing to a Code of Conduct and volunteering for at least 4 hours per year. There is an annual membership fee of $25 or $20 concession, due on 1 July each year. Please complete the form and email to secretary.ricarts@gmail.com
Classes and Workshops
We offer ongoing 'standard' weekly classes, as well as 'special' workshops.
For all enquiries/bookings, email secretary.ricarts@gmail.com (unless the class description states that the Tutor is to be contacted directly).
RICArts welcomes Expressions of Interest from Artists/Tutors to run workshops/classes - All EOIs must be submitted to RICArts Committee for review and approval.
Ongoing Weekly Classes
There is a daily attendance fee for all ongoing, standard weekly classes of $5 per class, per visit. This goes towards running costs. Special Workshops may attract different fees, which will be stated in the detailed Workshop description below this weekly list.
Mondays
Pottery (Beginners to Advanced): 9.30am – 12.30pm (Self-guided, no Tutor)
Tuesdays
Sculpting (Clay work by hand): 9am – 4pm (with Tutor)
Art in any medium: 9.30am – 12.30pm (Self-guided, no Tutor)
Ukulele: 12.30pm – 3pm (with Tutor)
Wednesday
Patchwork / Sewing / Craft: 9.30am – 12.30pm (with Tutor)
Woodworking & Creative Carving: 9am – 12pm (with Tutor)
Thursday
Mosaics: 9.30am – 12pm (with Tutor)
Sculpting (Clay work by hand): 9.30am – 12.30pm (Self-guided, no Tutor)
Friday
Pottery (Wheel Throwing): 9.30am – 12.30pm (with Tutor)
Sunday
Painting in Abstraction: 9.30am – 12.30pm (with Tutor)
Spring has Sprung! Watercolour with Marloes BM
Date: Saturday, 19 September 2026
Time: 9.30am — 12.30pm
Cost: $40. Includes materials to use in the classroom. Feel free to also bring any of your own brushes and paints you may have
Tutor: Marloes BM
NOTE: Both email & payment are required to confirm your spot
Join us as we explore the fascinating world of watercolours, whether you are just beginning or continuing your watercolour journey, this class has something for you.
In this session we will begin with discussing the basics, then celebrating that Spring has Sprung, we dive into the realm of all things floral, we will play with brush stroke techniques, layering, wet on wet, wet on dry, charging and reduction techniques as we play with botanicals and celebrate the change of seasons
LIMITED PLACES AVAILABLE—BOOK NOW TO SECURE YOUR SPOT!
Please email secretary.ricarts@gmail.com
Bark Painting with Robyn Joargensen
When: Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 September
9:30am - 4pm
Cost: $45 per person, includes materials
Tutor: Robyn Joargensen
Painting on dried bark stripped off trees, using ochres, is a very old tradition. The earliest European find was in a bark shelter over a grave in Tasmania around 1800. Bark painting is a unique form of making art, that has been used by First Nations people in Australia for thousands of years.
LIMITED PLACES AVAILABLE—BOOK NOW TO SECURE YOUR SPOT!
Please email secretary.ricarts@gmail.com
Mark Making Workshop
Sunday 13 September
10am - 2pm
Cost: $50, includes materials
Tutor: Tricia Dobson
Bookings essential: via Tricia
Email: tricianick@bigpond.com
Phone: 0409 109 569
Payment can be made by cash or card at RICArts on weekdays 9:30am to 12:30pm
A workshop exploring a range of mark making techniques and materials.
Coiled Baskets Weaving Workshop
Sunday 11 October
10am - 2pm
Cost: $50, includes materials
Tutor: Tricia Dobson
Bookings essential: via Tricia
Email: tricianick@bigpond.com
Phone: 0409 109 569
Payment can be made by cash or card at RICArts on weekdays 9:30am to 12:30pm
Create & Connect - Art Morning
Ongoing Workshops: Every Tuesday (can join at any time)
9:30am - 12:30pm
Cost: $5 per workshop
Self-guided, no Tutor
Come and join like-minded arty people for a chat and a coffee while having creative fun! Bring along your own materials for work in any medium - beginners and more experienced artists welcome!
Enquiries email secretary.ricarts@gmail.com
En Plein Air
Ongoing: Every Thursday
Starting Date: Thursday 4 June 2026 at Sandy Beach
Time: 10am - 12pm
No cost
That time of year again! When the heat and blood sucking insects have subsided and we can venture outdoors once more, to capture the colours and beauty of nature and surrounds. Our first outing will be Sandy Beach on Russell Island.
For expressions of interest contact Siobhan
Email: siobhandemeester@yahoo.com
Mobile 0406 108 882
Please let Siobhan know if you have any preferences of what and where to paint. Some ideas are Pelican Cafe at Redland Bay, Daisy Hill Koala Sanctuary, old buildings.... Once ideas for locations have been submitted, an itinerary will be distributed.
Painting in Abstraction
Set of 3 workshops: 3 Sundays each month
Dates: 19 July, 26 July and 2 August
Time: 9:30am - 12:30pm
Cost $100 (for set of 3 workshops), includes materials
Tutor: Eric Broome
Abstract Art reflects the artist's inner world, a canvas where emotions, thoughts, colour, movement and experiences intertwine to create a unique visual language. Whether you are a novice or experienced painter who is just starting your journey in abstract art, this workshop is for you! You will be introduced to techniques in abstract painting using the same secret tools that professional artists use to make their paintings visually dynamic, powerful and exciting. No previous skills in drawing or painting are needed.
For all enquiries/bookings, email secretary.ricarts@gmail.com
On The Wheel - Pottery Beginners
Ongoing Workshops: From Friday 5 June, then every Friday (can join at any time)
9:30am - 12:30pm
Cost: $35 per class plus materials (+ cost of clay around $6 on the day)
Tutor: Maria Cleary
Always wanted to try your hand at the wheel? Join Maria on Friday mornings to learn the basics, then level up if you are keen.
Bookings essential via Maria (only 3 places available in each class).
Email (preferred): ideamaria01@gmail.com
Phone (leave a message): 0419 711 871
Sculpting with Clay
Ongoing workshops: Every Tuesday (can join at any time)
9am - 4pm
Cost: $35 per class plus materials (materials can be purchased on class day)
Tutor: Robyn Joargensen
Hand building with clay - all you are limited by is your imagination!
For all enquiries email secretary.ricarts@gmail.com
Woodworking & Creative Carving
Ongoing Workshops: Every Wednesday (can join at any time)
9am - 12pm
Cost: $5 per workshop
Tutor: Rick Stanley
These weekly workshops are designed with a focus on introducing all participants, regardless of experience or skill levels, to the basics of shaping wood, wood burning and other small techniques. This is a relaxed group activity and an opportunity to explore the form, share experiences and skills, work on group projects, and encourage creativity through working with timber. If you are a RICArts member there is an attendance fee of $5 per class, per visit.
For safety reasons please wear closed toed shoes. If you have any woodcarving tools, feel free to bring them along, but this is not a necessary requirement for the first workshop.
For all enquiries email secretary.ricarts@gmail.com
Knitting Workshop
Ongoing Workshops: Every Wednesday from 22 April (can join at any time)
9:30am - 12:30pm
Cost: $5 per workshop
Tutor: Wendy Frost
Bring your own 5.00mm needles (no. 8), learners wool supplied
Join RICArts Craft Team! Are you ready to dive into the wonderful world of knitting? Whether you are a complete beginner or looking to refine your skills, our knitting workshop is the perfect opportunity to learn and create in a fun and supportive environment.
Basic Knitting techniques, reading patterns, projects for beginners and advanced skill levels, troubleshooting and more.
For all enquiries email secretary.ricarts@gmail.com
Craft - Paper Tole and Gift Card Making
Ongoing Workshops: Every Wednesday (can join at any time)
9:30am - 12:30pm
Cost: $5 per workshop
Tutor: Wendy Frost
Learn how to make your own cards, simple or paper tole. Special cards are a keepsake and loved by all those who are special enough to receive one!
Enquiries email secretary.ricarts@gmail.com
Crochet is Back!
Ongoing Workshops: Every Wednesday from 15 July (can join at any time)
9:30am - 12:30pm
Cost: $5 per workshop
Tutor: Wendy Frost
Crochet is back in fashion! Want to learn? Start with standard granny squares which could lead into children's ponchos, ladies' jackets, pet warmers, throws and much more!
Enquiries email secretary.ricarts@gmail.com
Our Tutors
Robyn Joargensen
Tutor, Pottery/Hand Sculpting
Maria Cleary
Tutor, Pottery Wheel Throwing
Wendy Frost
Tutor, Patchwork and Craft
Sandra Butler
Tutor, Mosaics
Eric Broome
Tutor, Painting in Abstraction
Tricia Dobson
Tutor, Weaving
Rick Stanley
Tutor, Woodwork and Creative Carving
Maxine Thompson
Tutor, Pastels
Current and Upcoming Events & Exhibitions
Metamorphosis - A Creative Evolution: 7th Annual Competition and Exhibition
GALA OPENING! Saturday 5 September, 3pm, with awards presented at 4pm sharp.
All are welcome to the opening of RICArts’ 7th Annual Art Exhibition and Competition 2027. Come and enjoy a chilled afternoon of art and community, accompanied by Jon Jass and his jazz ensemble the Cue Stick Band.
BYO drinks and a share plate
THANK YOU!
to our Sponsors Sealink Bay Islands, Bay Islands Transport and Lop Chop Chip
to our judges Shane Rendalls, Troy White and Christine Earthrowl
to Jon Jass and the Cue Stick Band
Exhibition Application
RICArts welcomes Expressions of Interest from Artists/Groups to hold exhibitions in our gallery - All EOIs must be submitted to RICArts Committee for review and approval.
The space includes the main gallery area, the hallway (Gallery 2) and the smaller gallery (Gallery 3) off the hallway.
The gallery has a hanging system installed, adjustable track lighting, and a number of display plinths available.
Our Community
The Bakehouse
Come and see why Islanders are raving about THE BAKEHOUSE at RICArts! Sweet and savoury home baked goodies will be available on the front verandah of the gallery on the 2nd Sunday each month, to coincide with the fabulous Sunrise Market Day. Nothing over $10!
ART & CRAFT STALL
The newest fundraising initiative for RICArts is the ART & CRAFT STALL at SUNRISE MARKETS! Everything has been handmade and kindly donated by RICArts members. Happening the 2nd Sunday each month.
Sunrise Markets
Set in the gorgeous grounds of RICArts is the monthly Sunrise Markets, held every 2nd Sunday from 8am to 12 noon. Come along and enjoy Rosie's coffee, a treat from the Bakehouse stall, while browsing the amazing mix of wares on offer! If you're lucky, the wonderful RICArts Ukelele group will also be playing!
Fusion Festival / FREE Painting Workshop/Metamorphosis Exhibition!
RICArts and BIMSARA are working together to ensure you have a fun filled day at this year's festival. Starting at RICArts at 10am on Saturday 12 September, come and join a free "Painting in Abstraction" workshop with the very talented SMBI local Artist Eric Broome. Booking are essential - please email secretary.ricarts@gmail.com to secure your spot.
RICArts are also hosting our 7th Annual Art Exhibition and Competition - Metamorphosis: A Creative Evolution! Come and enjoy the amazing array of art before heading to the Festival
Previous 2026 Exhibitions & Events
Recycle, Repurpose, Reuse Competition and Exhibition
The Recycle, Repurpose, Reuse Competition & Exhibition opened in style on Friday, 22 May, with an evening gala and awards presentation celebrating the art of recycling. Proudly presented by RICArts in partnership with Bob Turner and Bernard Demeester, and as part of the Redlands Coast AdventureFest, the annual event invited artists, designers, and recycling enthusiasts to turn discarded materials into remarkable works of art.
This year’s exhibition showcased 75 artworks from 30 local artists, each piece a unique blend of creativity and environmental consciousness. Visitors can explore how art can inspire sustainable living, proving that beauty and responsibility can go hand in hand.
Award Winners
Judged by Darren Goleby (Alkatraz Artz, Macleay Island) and Cindy Jensen (The Friendly Bay Islander), the 2026 winners were:
First Place: Aaliya “Arlo” Ruthenberg – “Jethro”, a sculpture made from recycled cardboard, styrofoam, and paper.
Second Place: Jane Hooper – “For small creatures such as we”, a shadow box incorporating the ashes and fur of the artist’s dog Billy, flowers and a photo frame made from a used book, and Billy’s favourite toys.
People’s Choice Award: Andre Gravett - "Greg and Doris", recycled metal shovels
Sponsor Acknowledgement
RICArts gratefully acknowledges the generous support of Marley’s Landscape and Building Supplies (Dan and Michelle Golin), whose sponsorship helped make this event possible.
Southern Moreton Bay Islands (SMBI) Art Trail
The inaugural 2026 SMBI Art Trail will become an annual celebration of art and creativity across the islands. It is one creative umbrella that brings together artists from multiple disciplines to showcase their artworks, engage and connect with the community, as well as invite visitors to explore the SMBI.
ALL ENQUIRIES to artistsamida@yahoo.com.au
Members' Exhibition 2026
Showcasing works created by RICArts members, this exhibition featured an incredible display of creative talent across a wide range of styles and mediums - including ceramics, painting, drawing, mosaics, patchwork, sculpture, photography, wood and metal work and more!
Contact Us
Address
23 Robert St, Russell Island QLD 4184, Australia
Operating Hours
9:30am - 12:30pm, Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays). If an exhibition is on in the gallery, we are also open on weekends, 9.30am - 12.30pm. Check Current Exhibitions section for details.
Our Committee
The last AGM of the Russell Island Community Arts Centre was held on Saturday 30 August 2025. 2025/26 Committee Members are:
Steve Asker
President
Dolores Johnston
Treasurer
Eileen Munn
Secretary
Jane Hooper
Exhibition/Event Coordinator
Siobhan Demeester
Ukulele Representative
Sandra Butler
Mosaics Representative
Wendy Frost
Patchwork Representative
Julie Menzies
Art Representative
Our Sponsors
