Artists can draw inspiration from spectacular views of the Tweed Caldera. Photo: Kate Holmes.
Each year the picnic invites artists of all ages to enjoy a relaxed afternoon of creativity and community. The event is an opportunity to slow down, connect and experience the enjoyment of painting en plein air, the French term for painting outdoors.
With panoramic views looking out to Wollumbin / Mount Warning and the Tweed River, the location of the Gallery provides plenty of inspiration for artists to sit and sketch.
Gallery Director Ingrid Hedgcock said the picnic has become a highlight within the Gallery's annual calendar of events.
" The Gallery Picnic has become a hugely popular occasion with people of all ages and abilities taking the time to be creative and enjoy the spectacular view to Wollumbin from the Gallery grounds.
" The picnic reflects what the Gallery is all about – creating opportunities for people to engage with art, artists and each other.
"It's a wonderful way to encourage creativity, share skills and bring our community together through the visual arts," Ms Hedgcock said.
This year Annika Romeyn joins the event as a Guest Artist. Based in the ACT, Annika is nationally recognised across printmaking, painting and drawing. Her artistic practice is grounded in sense of place and immersion in nature, from outback NSW through to the ice caps of Antarctica. On the day, Annika will respond to the lush scenery of the Tweed Caldera and share knowledge with visitors.
The whole family can also join free, drop-in artmaking activities with local artists. Leith Walton will inspire young artists to experiment with landscapes while visitors of all ages can try their hand at weaving with Kyra Togo (Minyungbal, Tagalaka and South Sea Islands).
Live music from musicians CJ Shaw and Amy John Roberts will provide the ideal soundtrack to a relaxed afternoon spent painting in the sunshine.
Picnickers can bring their own food or purchase a tasty selection of light offerings from Apex Dining onsite.
The Gallery looks forward to welcoming visitors from across the region to share this special event.
Event details
Tweed Regional Gallery Picnic and Artist Paint Out
Sunday 2 August 2026
2 pm – 5 pm
Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre
What's on offer
- Free family-friendly art activities hosted by Kyra Togo and Leith Walton
- Live music by Amy John Roberts and CJ Shaw
- Guest artist Annika Romeyn on site to inspire and mentor artists
- Artist Paint Out – all artists welcome
