JOY is a Port Macquarie exhibition by artists under 15
JOY features work by under 15s, with a few established artists for ballast. It’s loaded with colour and Christmas gifts and it illuminates some pathways for young local talent.
JOY is a curated exhibition at Luminance Art Gallery in Port Macquarie. It features work by young local artists under 15, with a few established artists for ballast.
We had great success mid-year with the Luminance Young & Emerging Artists Exhibition. The only thing missing was space for artists under 15, so we’re making good on that by hosting JOY from 20 November to 24 December 2025.
Over 30 young local artists submitted artworks in response to our open call. We created an online exhibition for all those who chose to participate, and we shortlisted 23 artworks for exhibition.
Not all of the JOY exhibition is Christmas-themed but the artworks beautifully express young peoples’ joy.
Luke Baker, who won the 2025 Luminance Young Artist Award (for 15-25 year olds) is a special guest, together with established artists Yvonne Kiely, Jon Dorne, Rose Burke and Malcolm Harding.
JOY is a remarkable exhibition, it’s one of our best yet. It’s full of colour and energy. And the smiles on the faces of young artists when they see their work in this context is pure gold.
“By adding experienced local artists to the mix, I hope to illuminate some of the pathways available to young people who want to follow their vision.
“The JOY exhibition says to young artists: there’s space for you and for your creativity,” says Luminance Gallery director Dr. Dominic O’Grady.
We left the gallery door open as we installed this exhibition, which enabled visitors to preview the collection. Their feedback? Wonderful. Absolutely joyous. Beautiful in every way.
All artworks are available for sale and can be previewed online. They make perfect Christmas gifts.
JOY is brought to you by gold sponsor McGrath Port Macquarie, with additional and generous support from:
More information: contact Dominic O’Grady.
Exhibition: 20 November - 24 December 2025