Community celebrates art at mango tree

Townsville Watercolour Group’s Under the Mango Tree exhibition is a beloved tradition that brings art to life in a lush garden setting. NQ Weekend discovers the origins of this unique event and uncovers the talents of its local artists, giving a sneak peek at the surprises awaiting visitors this year.

Artists Julie Boyd and Chantal Kwast-Greff, will take part in the annual exhibition of 'Under the Mango Tree'. Picture: Shae Beplate.

In a world where art often feels confined to the walls of galleries, the Townsville Watercolour Group’s Under the Mango Tree exhibition offers a refreshing alternative.

For decades, the group of artists have been inviting the community to experience their vibrant world of watercolour art through the much-anticipated exhibition.

What began as a simple outdoor display has blossomed into one of North Queensland’s most beloved annual events, drawing art lovers, tourists and curious newcomers alike.

The story of the Townsville Watercolour Group is one of passion, perseverance and a love for the medium.

“Watercolour is one of the oldest art forms and has a dubious reputation for being one of the most unforgiving mediums,” long-time member Marion O’Shea says.

Yet, this challenge is part of the allure.

“Watercolour lends itself to various styles and the TWG group is well known for displaying most of them,” Marion says.

Over the years, their diverse range of techniques and styles has not only captivated local audiences but also made the individual works of TWG members instantly recognisable among Townsville’s art collectors.

The group, which was formed in 1972 by artist Alison Annesley, has grown to become the second oldest art group in Townsville.

Under the Mango Tree has been held for decades in Townsville

At the time, watercolour was not a popular genre among local artists.

But Alison, who had recently moved to Townsville, was determined to change that.

She soon formed a separate group of watercolour artists, which has continued to thrive over the decades.

“Many of our members have taught watercolour to many of Townsville’s current artists,” Marion says, highlighting the group’s significant influence on the local art scene.

The origins of the Under the Mango Tree exhibition date back to 1975 when the group held its first outdoor exhibition, Art in the Garden, in the perfumed gardens behind the old courthouse in Sturt Street.

This debut event was part of the Pacific Festival, a fitting backdrop for what would become a cherished tradition.

The following year, the exhibition found a new home in the backyard of TWG member Del Baldock, where it remained until 2006.

After Del’s passing, Marion, then president of the Townsville Art Society, generously offered her own garden at 14 Anderson St as the new venue.

“It is still currently held at 14 Anderson Street,” she says, a testament to the enduring legacy of the event.

Today, Under the Mango Tree is more than just an exhibition; it’s a celebration of art, community and tradition.

Artists Julie Boyd and Chantal Kwast-Greff says the event has become a popular gathering over many years and draws hundreds of visitors over the weekend it is held . Picture: Shae Beplate.

“The event has become a popular gathering over many years and draws hundreds of visitors over the weekend it is held,” Marion says.

“Many tourists find their way to the event as do many new residents who come from areas where weekend art gatherings are more common.”

The atmosphere is one of warmth and hospitality, with visitors offered tea, coffee and cakes as they stroll through the garden, discovering paintings on easels and hanging between the plants.

With over 300 framed and unframed paintings on display, there is something for every art lover to admire.

This year’s exhibition promises a few surprises as well.

Marion will be showcasing a selection of oil paintings in the Flemish style, alongside works by three TWG members who have spent the past six months learning the technique from Marion herself.

These pieces will be on display in the Mo’s Art Gallery on-site, offering visitors a glimpse into the meticulous world of Flemish painting.

As always, a highlight of the event will be the raffle of a watercolour work, with free tickets given to each attendee upon entry.

It’s a small gesture that reflects the group’s commitment to making art accessible to all.

“The group is self-funded and considers this event as a community service project for art lovers,” Marion says.

“The members which over the years have grown to 12 artists include a number of Townsville’s award-winning artists.”

The exhibition is a reminder that art is not just something to be observed but something to be experienced — whether it’s in the brushstrokes of a watercolour painting or in the gentle rustling of leaves overhead as you wander through a garden filled with creativity.

>> Join the TWG for this year’s Under the Mango Tree exhibition on August 24th and 25th at 14 Anderson St, Railway Estate.

Originally published as Community celebrates art at mango tree