Under the Mango Tree: art sale

Tropical gardens, vibrant artwork, and local talent come together for the Townsville Watercolour Group’s annual Under the Mango Tree exhibition and sale.

Artist Chantal Kwast-Greff’s art will be on display at the annual Under the Mango Tree exhibition and sale

The lush tropical gardens of 14 Anderson Street, Railway Estate, will once again come alive with colour as the Townsville Watercolour Group presents its annual Under the Mango Tree exhibition and sale this weekend.

Now in its nineteenth year, the much-loved event will showcase hundreds of original watercolour paintings, displayed on easels and hung among orchids, gingers and tropical greenery.

“The garden at 14 Anderson Street in Railway Estate is the pride and joy of dedicated gardener and our mentor, Marion O’Shea,” organiser Debbie Belcastro said.

“This year there have been changes in the grounds that regular visitors will notice, with a more open feel, but many additions to the vast array of orchids, gingers and many other varieties of the tropics on show.”

Debbie said Marion’s hospitality played a huge part in creating the event’s unique atmosphere. “This will be the nineteenth year that Marion has hosted this wonderful Townsville event, and we all appreciate her generosity and efforts in the garden,” she said.

The relaxed, tropical setting is the perfect backdrop for the diverse range of works visitors will find at the exhibition.

“There is plenty of room to display the hundreds of artworks, on easels or hanging interspersed among the greenery, Debbie said. “The end result is a relaxed and inviting environment to enjoy the art, which is after all the reason so many locals and visitors return each year.”

Artist Robyn Gerstle work show her love of birdlife

The Townsville Watercolour Group includes many longstanding members, along with newer faces adding fresh inspiration.

“Robyn Gerstle has been with us for a few years and is making a mark with her love of birdlife, with a definite style that lends to fine detail and uncomplicated backgrounds which results in very striking pieces,” Debbie said.

“Chantal Kwast Greff also has been in the group for a few years, and as well as entertaining us each week at group, Chantal has a unique style and a very wild imagination. There is always an interesting account or anecdote attached to her works and we thoroughly enjoy her diversity.”

A new addition to the group, Karen Anne Anderson, has also been making her mark.

“Karen’s works are often a combination of delicate and free, granting the viewer an opportunity to connect with the subject, which is often a native animal, bird or flora,” Debbie said. This year’s exhibition will also carry a sense of loss and remembrance, following the passing of respected artist Geoff Maidens.

Artist Karen Anne Anderson’s works are a combination of delicate and free

“Recently our group was saddened by the loss of our dear friend and long standing member Geoff Maidens. Geoff has been a name synonymous with watercolour in Townsville for decades,” Debbie said.

“Many years as a graphic artist and businessman locally, Geoff’s contribution to Townsville Watercolour Group cannot be understated, and he will be very much missed. Many of Geoff’s pieces will be on display and offered for sale at Under the Mango Tree.”

Over two days, visitors will have the chance to meet the twelve artists, view and purchase original artworks, and enjoy complimentary tea and coffee in the tropical garden setting.

“All ages are welcome, there is plenty of free parking and the venue is wheelchair friendly,” Debbie said.

Under the Mango Tree will run from 10am to 4pm on both Saturday, July 26, and Sunday, July 27, at 14 Anderson Street, Railway Estate.

Originally published as Under the Mango Tree: art sale