Arts Mid North Coast invites artists working across all mediums to be part of GATHER, a community exhibition celebrating creativity, connection and place, held at MAKE/SPACE gallery in Coffs Harbour.
GATHER brings together a diverse range of contemporary works by local artists, each offering a unique perspective, while exploring what it means to come together through art and community.
Bold, playful and reflective, GATHER invites audiences and artists alike to consider the power of gathering: what we create individually, and what emerges when those voices are brought together in a shared collective voice.
The GATHER exhibition will run from 20 May- 20 June, 2026.
With an Opening Celebration on Thursday 21 May, from 5.30pm- 7.30pm.
How you can get involved:
We invite artists working across all mediums to contribute to this dynamic group exhibition- all levels of experience are encouraged to apply.
To be part of the GATHER exhibition, you need to submit an expression of interest (EOI). Please note you will need a picture of your artwork, size of the artwork and price to complete the application.
Closes: Wednesday 13th May 2026 at 5pm
FAQs
Who can apply?
GATHER is open to artists living on the Mid North Coast, NSW who reside in one of our contributing LGAs- Bellingen Shire Council, Coffs Harbour City Council, Nambucca City Council, Kempsey Shire Council and Port Macquarie Hastings Council.
Artists at all stages of their practice are encouraged to apply.
Is there a theme for the exhibition?
No. There is no set theme for GATHER. Artists are invited to submit work that reflects their own practice and interests, while reflecting on the power of gathering.
What types of work can be submitted?
We welcome a broad range of contemporary art practices. Eligible works include:
- 2D works (painting, drawing, photography, printmaking, etc.)
- 3D works (sculpture, objects, installation, etc.)
All works must be suitable for exhibition within a public gallery setting.
How many works can I submit?
Each artist may submit one artwork only for consideration.
Is there an age limit?
No. Artists of all ages are welcome to apply.
Is there an exhibition fee or commission?
Yes. A 20% commission is applied to all artwork sales, which is paid to Arts Mid North Coast, but please note there is no fee to submit artwork.
Do I need an ABN to participate?
No ABN is required. If you don’t have an ABN, you may provide a Statement by Supplier form from the ATO when invoicing.
When do I need to deliver my artwork?
All works must be delivered to MAKE/SPACE Coffs Harbour on: 18 May 2026, between 10am and 2pm.
Late deliveries may not be accepted due to installation scheduling.
Where will the exhibition be held?
MAKE/SPACE Coffs Harbour, Level 1 Coffs Central Shopping Centre at 35-61 Harbour Drive, in the heart of the CBD.
Can I volunteer during the exhibition?
Yes. Artists have the opportunity to volunteer to staff the gallery during the exhibition period.
In recognition of this contribution, artists who volunteer will not be charged the 20% commission fee on the sale of any of their exhibition artworks.
They will also have the opportunity to run a workshop at MAKE/SPACE during their volunteer slot. Please reach out to Program Manager Skye Petho here for more details.
When is the exhibition open to the public?
20 May – 20 June 2026
Exhibition opening hours:
• Mondays- 10 am- 5 pm
• Tuesdays- 10 am- 5 pm
• Wednesdays- 10 am- 5 pm
• Thursdays- 10 am- 6.30 pm
• Fridays- 10 am- 5 pm
• Saturdays- 10 am- 4 pm
• Sundays- 10 am- 2 pm
Is there an opening event?
Yes! The opening celebration is on Thursday, 21 May, 5.30 pm– 7.30 pm. All are welcome.
How do I apply?
Submit your expression of interest (EOI) through Arts Mid North Coast, including:
- Artist details
- Artwork information (medium, dimensions, etc.)
- Images of the work
- Brief description if relevant
Can I change the details of my artwork once I submit the expression of interest?
No, once you submit, changes cannot be made.
Image: Artwork by Rosalyn Fuhrer.