Downlands Art

Today is the last day of the exhibition, and many remarkable pieces are still looking for a home or simply want to be appreciated. Don’t miss the opportunity to view these incredible works in person and immerse yourself in the art. We would love to see you! We are open until 4 PM today.

The RME Downlands Exhibition Curator’s Encouragement Award has been historically awarded to an artist who would benefit the most from an opportunity to experience new mediums and find new pathways for their creative expression.

It is not a prize for the best artwork in show by a novice. Often, it has been awarded to an artist who has a long history of exhibiting but still would benefit greatly from a bit of recognition and access to excellent resources.

This year, the curator has chosen local artist Hope Beliveau Art . Hope has worked on paper for many years, often producing engaging portraits, detail studies and lovely countryside scenes.

Thank you to the University of Southern Queensland - Australia for sponsoring this prize and providing the opportunity to attend the 2026 McGregor Summer School.

Such a brilliant show this year.
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“I attempt to bring out the warmth, emotion, and a little bit of that ‘attitude’ in my subject matter.”— Irena Annandale-James

Influenced by Paul Gauguin, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Wendy Sharpe, Irena’s work blends vibrant colour with feeling and expression. Her rhythmic piece ‘Doo Bop’ will feature at this year’s RME Downlands Art Exhibition.

We thank Artshop Fine Custom Picture Framing and Art Restoration for their generous support, reflecting our shared belief that creative expression enriches lives, fosters meaningful conversations, and strengthens community connections.

Join us in experiencing this celebration of art, conversation and community at the RME Downlands Art Exhibition, 20–24 September 2025.

The 2025 RME Downlands College Art Exhibition is almost upon us!
🖌️ Exhibition: Sept 20-24
🎊 Gala Opening Night: Sept 19 🎫 (Last chance to book tickets for the Gala - link in bio)

Inspired by Bruce Springsteen’s lyric, 'Well my feet they finally took root in the earth, but I got me a nice little place in the stars’, Helen Pearson’s Growing Up speaks to the quiet strength of finding one’s place.

It’s a sentiment shared by RUSSELL MINERAL EQUIPMENT - RME, which planted itself in Toowoomba four decades ago and has since grown on the global stage. It’s also synergistic with the many employees who’ve found their footing and grown alongside the company.

The RME Downlands Art Exhibition celebrates stories like Helen’s acrylic and oil on canvas. Come and view this wonderful piece at the exhibition, which runs from 20–24 September 2025 10am–4pm daily.

Mandy Beebe’s ‘Tidal Drift’ takes us on a journey where abstract elements merge with the familiar. Mandy cites J.M.W. Turner’s emotional use of colour, light, and atmosphere as a key influence.

We thank Fine Custom Picture Framing and Art Restoration for their steadfast support of the RME Downlands College Art Exhibition. Through museum-standard techniques and pH-neutral materials, ARTSHOP preserves and amplifies each work—ensuring expressions like Mandy’s endure for generations.

See Tidal Drift at this year’s RME Downlands Art Exhibition, 20–24 September 202 5

We believe the RME Downlands Art show is more than an exhibition—it’s a celebration of community. These artworks bring people together, provoke thoughtful conversation, and deepen local connections.

That’s why we’re proud to partner with our naming sponsor RUSSELL MINERAL EQUIPMENT - RME , whose support enables us to bring together local artists and art collectors.

Together, we’re celebrating works like ‘Towards Table Top’—a traditional oil landscape by Alison Murphy. At the core of Alison’s practice lies a commitment to exploring narratives of people and place. Her work tells the story of the land through soft blue-greys, the distinctive Australian light, and reverence for the environment that connects our communities.

Come and view this wonderful piece at the RME Downlands Art Exhibition 20-24 September 2025, 10am-4pm daily.

The countdown is on for the 2025 RME Downlands College Art Exhibition!
🖌️ Exhibition: Sept 20-24
🎊 Gala Opening Night: Sept 19 🎫 (Last chance to book tickets for the Gala. www.downlandsart.com)