Marc Renshaw is a contemporary Australian visual artist working across drawing, printmaking, street art, and painting. Based on Gumbaynggirr country on the Mid North Coast NSW, he runs Big Fig Arts, a community arts organisation, and The Bellinger Print Social, an open-access printmaking studio.
Marc recently curated a group exhibition (held 27 November to 9 December, 2025) with The Monthlyists at MAKE/SPACE in Coffs Harbour- an experimental gallery initiative facilitated by Arts Mid North Coast. We did a deep dive with Marc to learn more about what it was like using the space for a group show, and what advice he has for other artists considering something similar.
Why did you choose to curate a group show rather than present a solo exhibition?
We were part of an arts group called The Monthlyists that met regularly, and a group show felt like a natural extension of those gatherings. Since we live across the Mid North Coast, the space was central for us. Some of us hadn’t exhibited together before, despite long-standing connections, and we wanted to showcase work that had emerged through our meetings.
Were there any surprises or unexpected moments bringing the group together?
We aimed to minimise surprises by combining our collective experience and skills, but seeing each other’s work for the first time was a great and positive surprise. The quality of the hanging was also impressive. The opening event brought unexpected but welcome feedback and conversations, and sharing our individual skills in a collaborative way felt like working on a festival-scale project.
How did you select or connect with the artists who exhibited?
We’re all part of The Monthlyists and have known each other for years. Everyone decided individually whether to be involved, which naturally led to a diverse range of media and ideas. Some members chose not to exhibit.
Did any notable conversations or collaborations emerge during the experience?
Yes, there were many discussions about whether to have a theme, how to use the space, and handling logistics like promotion. Conversations about potential collaborations also took place, and we anticipate future joint projects.
How did local audiences respond to the exhibition? Any memorable moments?
The opening (held 27 November 2025) was vibrant, with many local artists, industry people, and an engaged audience attending. A live drawing performance by Nikki Morgan-Smith sparked conversation and intrigue. DJs and a bar created a social atmosphere. Visitors appreciated the contemporary content and showed a strong interest in the artist statements and artworks.
Did the shopping centre setting affect how the work was received?
Not negatively. It actually increased exposure to audiences who might not usually visit galleries. We presented the show professionally, treating it as an event as well as an exhibition. The space was clean, well-lit, and enjoyable to use.
What did you enjoy most about curating the group show?
The creative side was most rewarding. While we had the skills to manage logistics, coordinating multiple artists and artworks was still a challenge. Creatively, it was exciting to collaborate, especially on promotional ideas and the event’s atmosphere.
Did the show spark any new ideas for future projects or collaborations?
Yes, we have plans for future shows and smaller projects that leverage each other’s strengths. Some of us have worked together before, and that will continue.
What advice would you give regional artists or curators planning a group show?
Group shows offer benefits like shared costs, work, and greater exposure. Having a unifying thread, even if not a theme, helps bring cohesion. In our case, it was about being regional artists with global connections. Understanding everyone’s strengths and maintaining good communication is key. I’d strongly encourage others to use such spaces to incubate new ideas and expand the regional arts scene.
Where can people find out more about you and your work?
I run Big Fig Arts in Bellingen, an ARI involved in classes, workshops, mentoring, exhibitions, and festivals. I also exhibit regularly, with work currently in Northern Exposure 9 at the Port Macquarie Regional Art Gallery, and recently showed drawings at Berry Campbell Gallery in New York.
Image 1: MAKE/SPACE opening night, Image 2: UN:TETHERED by Marc Renshaw, Image 3: Punk Rocker by Fiona Minto, Image 4: Nikky Morgan-Smith live somatic drawing performance