For emerging and established artists alike, Art Post at 22 Channon Street is a space built with purpose: to provide opportunity, support, and a creative home.
Entirely volunteer-run and self-funded through art sales, community grants, and private venue hire, it has become a cornerstone for the local arts community.
Described as “run by artists for artists,” Art Post is a space that nurtures emerging talent, provides a platform for established creatives, and connects the wider community through art, music, and shared experiences.
One of Art Post’s dedicated volunteers is Sandra Ross, an artist herself and one of the driving forces behind the gallery’s operations.
With 17 years of gallery experience under her belt, Sandra is passionate about making art accessible, not just for audiences, but for artists who may be just starting their journey.
“This space is great for artists who are new to the art world, especially young people,” Sandra says.
“It helps bridge that gap from being an emerging talent to becoming a recognised artist.”
The gallery space is available for hire, giving artists the opportunity to host their own exhibitions.
The Art Post team is even able to assist with applying for grants to support such shows, making the process more achievable for those without experience in arts administration.
It’s this hands-on support that makes Art Post such a unique asset.
Since it was opened, Art Post has played host to an impressive array of artists, including the likes of Simone Male and renowned Aboriginal artist Jandamarra Cadd.
The venue has also proven itself to be a favourite among musicians who are drawn to its intimate, ambient setting.
Emma Bow has held several of her popular ‘candlelight concerts’ at Art Post, often accompanied by a string quartet, while acclaimed Aboriginal blues and gospel singer Kankawa Nagarra has also graced the space.
Widely recognised singer-songwriter Darren Hanlon is another name who has brought music to the gallery’s walls.
Art Post is part of the current Studio Trails initiative, a regional open studio program that draws attention to local artistic talent.
In addition to its vibrant exhibition calendar and live music events, the space also houses Chai Chai Teahouse—a purposefully designed area within the gallery where patrons can enjoy coffee and nibbles while immersing themselves in the artworks.
This integration of café culture and creativity helps foster a relaxed and reflective environment, one where visitors can take their time to engage deeply with what’s on display.
Sandra Ross is well known for her own deeply personal art.
She works with mixed media, often combining ink and watercolour before illustrating on top.
Her work is inspired by the emotional terrain of grief and healing.
“A lot of my work is about grief,” she explains.
“I’ve been drawing my whole life. I use landscapes as a metaphor for grief and loss. Making art helps me heal, and it also helps others find a way through. Grief is hard for some people to talk about.”
This therapeutic power of creativity is something Sandra firmly believes in.
“I think art helps people be more aware of their own wellbeing,” she says.
“There’s something about being in a space like this, surrounded by stories and expression—it can be really grounding.”
The community spirit that Art Post embodies has been championed from the beginning by patrons Sandra Phoenix and John O’Brien, through their not-for-profit organisation, The Genus.
They’ve been integral to Art Post’s establishment and continued success.
Alongside them, a passionate team of artists helps with the day-to-day running of the gallery.
Among these are Ian and Audrey Gumm, Kym Barrett, Charmaine Lyons, Kathi Passmore, Manu Bugallo, Tamara Kirby, the inimitable Cindy Vogels, and many others—all of whom contribute not only their time but also their creative insight.
The gallery’s next exhibition, opening on Saturday 28 June, is by landscape artist Pam Black.
Titled Lineage, the exhibition is a personal exploration of the connection between mother and daughter.
This new show will offer visitors yet another chance to experience the kind of thought-provoking, emotionally resonant work that Art Post has become known for.
Art Post is open Monday through Saturday from 8am to 1.30pm, offering plenty of opportunity for locals and visitors alike to explore its exhibitions, enjoy a drink in the teahouse, and maybe even catch a performance or connect with one of the artists in residence.
In a world where creative spaces are increasingly commercialised, Art Post stands as a reminder of what can be achieved when artists come together to build something for their community.
It is a place of connection, expression, and healing—an open door for anyone who wants to step inside and be inspired.
