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.
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: 9am – 12pm (Standard classes every week, Mosaic Training by appointment only)
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)
Curlew Creations!
Sunday 24 May 2026
10am - 12pm
Cost: $35 per person, including all materials
Tutors: Bob Turner and Bernard Demeester
Part of RICArts annual Repurpose, Recycle, Reuse Exhibition program, and the Redlands Coast Adventure Fest, join our hands-on workshop where creativity meets sustainability!
With full instruction by local artists, participants will craft a charming curlew bird sculpture alongside a unique garden pot, all using repurposed and recycled materials. Take your artworks home with you at the end of the day!
This workshop celebrates resourcefulness and environmental awareness and is perfect for all skill levels - come create, connect, and give new life to discarded treasures.
Enquiries/Bookings: email secretary.ricarts@gmail.com
Weaving Workshop - Creative Cordage
Sunday 12 April and Saturday 18 April
10am - 1pm
Cost: $80 ($40 per workshop), includes materials
Tutor: Tricia Dobson
A two-part workshop combining cordage making, random weave and and coil weaving to create a mixed media wall piece.
Bookings essential: via Tricia
Email: tricianick@bigpond.com
Phone: 0409 109 569
Pastel Refresher
Saturday 16 May and Sunday 17 May
9am - 4pm
BYO: Lunch and water bottle
Cost: $160 RICArts members or $190 non-members (exc. materials)
Maxine Thompson, Master Pastelist, returns to Russell Island to present another fun packed workshop run over two days. Maxine has taught in excess of 500 workshops since being named a Master Pastelist by the Pastel Society of Australia in 1997. Maxine believes that anyone who wants to be an artist can be and invites you to experience the positive learning environment of her workshops.
Enquiries and booking (essential) email secretary.ricarts@gmail.com
Painting in Abstraction
Set of 3 workshops: 3 Sundays each month
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.
For all enquiries/bookings, email secretary.ricarts@gmail.com
On The Wheel - Pottery Beginners
Ongoing Workshops: Every Friday (can join at any time)
9:30am - 12:30pm
Cost: $35 per class plus materials (materials can be purchased on class 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 wood working and carving techniques. This is a relaxed group activity and an opportunity to explore the form, share experiences and skills, and encourage creativity through working with timber.
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
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
Recycle, Repurpose, Reuse Competititon and Exhibition
The art of recycling has become not only an environmental necessity but also a creative outlet. This annual exhibition celebrates this innovative spirit by inviting artists, designers, and recycling enthusiasts to transform otherwise discarded materials into remarkable works of art.
Coordinated by Bob and Bernard in partnership with RICArts gallery, this event showcases eco-conscious artistry while fostering a community that values and promotes sustainability. The exhibition proves that beauty and responsibility can co-exist harmoniously.
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
Curlew Creations Workshop!
When: Sunday 24 May 2026
Time: 10am - 12pm
Cost: $35 per person, including all materials
Enquiries/Bookings: email secretary.ricarts@gmail.com
Part of RICArts annual Repurpose, Recycle, Reuse Exhibition program, and the Redlands Coast Adventure Fest, join our hands-on workshop where creativity meets sustainability! Take your artworks home with you at the end of the day!
The Bakehouse
The latest fundraising initiative for RICArts is THE BAKEHOUSE! 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!
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!
Art Therapy Workshops
Exploring your emotions through art is a great way to process difficult situations. This reflective series will start with your experience of ex-TC Alfred and the impact it had on your life. The Workshop series is designed to support development and strengthening confidence, self-esteem and resilience.
Previous 2026 Exhibitions & Events
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, 7 Days (Excluding public holidays)
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
Barbara Wilson
Committee Member/Past 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
