Artists’ stories shine bright

The vibrant art scene of Townsville is set to see a new dawn as three seasoned artists, Anne McLaughlin, Debbie Belcastro, and Carole Howlett, have unveiled their much-anticipated collaborative exhibition, “Recollections,” at the Art at Jezzine hut.

Art Exhibition. "Recollections" artists Debbie Belcastro, Carole Howlett and Anne McLaughlin. Picture: Evan Morgan

The vibrant art scene of Townsville is set to see a new dawn as three seasoned artists, Anne McLaughlin, Debbie Belcastro, and Carole Howlett, have unveiled their much-anticipated collaborative exhibition, “Recollections,” at the Art at Jezzine hut.

The exhibition, which opened last night and will run until August 1, promises to offer a profound and personal artistic journey through the trio’s diverse creative expressions.

For these three artists, the theme “Recollections” is more than just a collection of artworks; it’s a testament to their shared experiences and a unified response to their personal and collective histories.

Recollections Exhibition is at Art at Jezzine Gallery

Anne says she considers herself fortunate to have known Carole and Debbie for many years.

“Consequently, collaborating on this upcoming exhibition was a pleasurable experience achieved over a cup of coffee or two,” Anne tells NQ Weekend. “Recollections is an exhibition that offers a response to our life experiences. While my upcoming artworks serve as a personal record of my local experiences, they are relatable to all.

“Having a collective aim of producing artwork for an exhibition provides great focus and direction.”

Recollections Exhibition will be on show until August 1

Choosing the theme “Recollections” for the exhibition allowed each artist to choose the subject matter that resonated with them and respond with their authentic vision.”

Debbie’s artworks for the exhibition are varied.

“Although I mainly draw from the natural world of birds, florals and landscapes, the theme of the exhibition extended my thoughts and encouraged me to draw on other life experiences. Hopefully the viewers will relate with many of our works and can connect their own thoughts and reminiscences to the many diverse images.”

Despite their diverse artistic styles and mediums, the three women find harmony in their collaboration.

“I think that our individual styles and approaches vary quite dramatically and yet sit very well together rather comfortably,” Carole says. “With Debbie’s beautifully soft and gentle watercolours, set against Anne’s strong and striking landscapes - then my semi abstract renditions - it all seems to complement each other in this absorbing collaboration of diverse artwork.“

Recollections Exhibition offers a range of artworks

Carole says all her pieces in the exhibition hold special significance for her.

“They all represent either a person, a place or a moment I recall,which resonates with me on some level.

“It would be nice think that people could relate to the artworks in our exhibition,” Carole says. “Obviously not on an individual level but more the concept behind them.

“This is just a small insight into a few of mine and hopefully a prompt for the viewers to find of their own.

“We all have numerous memories to recollect and I have certainly enjoyed reproducing some of mine.”

The exhibition promises a range of works that will cater to a broad audience, including large and smaller paintings, gift lines, and cards.

The artists hope that the public will not only enjoy the aesthetic experience but also find personal connections within the diverse representations of “Recollections.”

Recollections will be open daily, between 10am and 4pm until August 1, at Art at Jezzine Gallery, Mitchell St, North Ward

Originally published as Artists’ stories shine bright