Maitland gallery launches second Hunter Biennale featuring more than 40 artists

Newy 87.8 FM – Maitland Regional Art Gallery has launched the second Hunter Biennale, Upriver Downriver, a landmark exhibition presented across all gallery spaces.

Building on the success of the inaugural exhibition in 2023, this year's Biennale brings together more than 40 local artists whose work reflects the stories, landscapes and experiences shaped by the Hunter region and its rivers.

The exhibition invites visitors to follow the Hunter River from the Upper Hunter, through Maitland and on to the Port of Newcastle, exploring the waterways and communities that connect the region.

Gallery Director Gerry Bobsien said the exhibition reflects the richness of creative practice across the region and the Gallery's ongoing commitment to showcasing Hunter-based artists.

"Following the strong response to the inaugural 2023 exhibition, we decided to establish the Hunter Biennale as a recurring and important part of our exhibition program. We're excited to see how it continues to grow and evolve," Ms Bobsien said.

Maitland-born artist Nell said the exhibition provides an important cultural marker for artists who live in or have grown up in the region. Her work, The NELL ANNE QUILT, includes embroidered patches created by 441 people from around the world, each honouring a significant woman by name. Contributors include former students of Linuwel Steiner School.

Upriver Downriver will be on display at Maitland Regional Art Gallery from 11 July to 11 October 2026.

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