Win for Darwin arts scene as Outstation Gallery opens at the Waterfront

Two of Darwin’s foremost galleries have merged to create a stunning venue to the Top End arts scene. See the pictures.

Revered artist Katie Nalgood cuts the ribbon to open the new space with co-directors of Outstation Gallery, Matt Ward and Paul Johnstone. Photo: Alana Holmberg.

A stunning new art gallery has opened at the Darwin Waterfront, joining the mix of food, fashion, and lifestyle at the precinct, and marking a step forward for the Territory’s arts and culture scene.

Outstation Gallery is the brainchild of directors Matt Ward and Paul Johnstone, in a merger of their two established spaces: Outstation Gallery in Parap, and the Paul Johnstone Gallery in the CBD.

The new space offers a museum-quality venue with an adaptable design and harbour views, dedicated to showcasing both contemporary Aboriginal art and non-Indigenous works by celebrated Northern Territory artists.

The Outstation Gallery team, Paul Johnstone (Director), Ellie Baldwin, Ros Orbegoso, and Matt Ward (Director). Photo credit: Territory Savvy.

“It’s about making an impact,” Mr Johnstone said.

“We could only go so far independently, but merging allows us to take that leap and build something truly significant.”

The duo has collaborated for more than 12 years – their first project launching the Salon des Refuses in 2013, where they exhibited works not selected for the prestigious Telstra National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Award.

The exhibition has become an annual event, cementing itself as a staple of the fine art program for Darwin’s Dry season.

The new Outstation has outlined its mission to connect people with the rich stories, traditions and talent of remote Aboriginal communities and to provide artists with a space that honours their work.

The gallery is signatory to the Indigenous Art Code.

“We’ve created this space to ensure that artists feel proud to present their work and to help educate people about their culture,” Mr Ward said.

Indigenous Art Centre Alliance interim chief executive Edwina Circuitt said “Matt and Paul are friendly gallerists who’ve built a values-driven business”.

“They’ve created incredible opportunities for artists, where culture and artwork are showcased and celebrated in a way that is accessible to everyone,” she said.

Originally published as Win for Darwin arts scene as Outstation Gallery opens at the Waterfront