Artists Invited to Paint, Picnic and Create at Tweed Gallery
Annual community picnic returns with art, music and spectacular views of Wollumbin.
Artists, families and art lovers are invited to spend a creative afternoon surrounded by some of the Northern Rivers’ most spectacular scenery when the Annual Community Picnic and Artist Paint Out returns to the Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre on Sunday, 2 August 2026.
Held from 2 pm to 5 pm, the popular free event encourages people of all ages and artistic abilities to pack a picnic, bring along their sketchbooks and paints, and enjoy an afternoon of creativity overlooking the Tweed Valley.
Set against panoramic views of Wollumbin / Mount Warning and the Tweed River, the gallery’s picturesque grounds provide the perfect setting for en plein air painting—the traditional French practice of creating artworks outdoors.
Tweed Regional Gallery Director Ingrid Hedgcock said the annual picnic has become one of the gallery’s most anticipated community 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,” Ms Hedgcock said.
“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.”
This year’s special guest artist is Annika Romeyn, an acclaimed painter, printmaker and drawing artist from the ACT whose work is inspired by Australia’s diverse landscapes, from the outback of New South Wales to Antarctica’s icy wilderness.
During the afternoon, Romeyn will paint on site, drawing inspiration from the Tweed Caldera while sharing techniques, ideas and insights with visitors.
Families will also be able to enjoy a range of free hands-on art activities led by local artists.
Children can experiment with landscape art alongside Leith Walton, while visitors of all ages are invited to learn weaving techniques with Kyra Togo, whose cultural heritage includes Minyungbal, Tagalaka and South Sea Islander ancestry.
Adding to the relaxed atmosphere, local musicians CJ Shaw and Amy John Roberts will perform live throughout the afternoon, providing the soundtrack as artists sketch, paint and enjoy the surrounding landscape.
Visitors are encouraged to bring their own picnic, although Apex Dining will also offer a selection of light meals and picnic options throughout the event.
Artists planning to participate in the Paint Out should remember to bring their own painting and drawing materials, while all supplies for the organised children’s and community art activities will be provided free of charge.
With its combination of art, music, food and one of Australia’s most breathtaking natural backdrops, the Community Picnic and Artist Paint Out continues to celebrate creativity while bringing together artists and visitors from across the Northern Rivers and South East Queensland.
Whether you’re an experienced painter or simply looking for a relaxing afternoon outdoors, the event promises inspiration, community connection and an opportunity to experience one of the Tweed’s most beautiful cultural destinations.
