Vibrant art exhibition opens Mother’s Day

Townsville’s Escape Artists return to Art at Jezzine with a vibrant new exhibition opening Mother’s Day weekend. Featuring a colourful mix of landscapes, animals, abstracts and mixed media, the show celebrates friendship, creativity and the joy of painting together.

Escape Artists, Marty Ironside, Robynn Morro, Linda Huff, Dal Monaghan and Jenny Finn. Picture: Shae Beplate.

Townsville’s much-loved Escape Artists group is back with their annual exhibition at Art at Jezzine and this year it opens just in time for Mother’s Day weekend.

From bold cows and colourful birds to textured abstracts and serene landscapes, the group’s latest collection offers something for every taste and budget.

Artist and group member Linda Huff said the timing of the show was intentional.

“We thought it would be a lovely way for families to treat their mums, whether that’s by buying an original artwork or simply spending time together enjoying the show,” she says.

Now in their 15th year of painting together, the Escape Artists bring warmth, colour and camaraderie to the local art scene.

Linda Huff's BLUE WREN

“We all have different styles, but that’s what makes it so vibrant,” Linda said. “We support each other, bounce ideas around, and encourage one another to try new techniques.”

Visitors can expect a wide range of sizes, subjects, and media from this talented group.

A lifelong creative, Jenny Finn has spent more than 30 years immersed in art — from commercial projects to community murals. As the founder of FINNART, she has brought colour and imagination to spaces all over Townsville, including JCU Dental, Kirwan Dental and the Townsville General Hospital children’s ward.

Linda Huff discovered her passion for painting after stepping away from full-time work, seeking something meaningful to connect with. Through painting, Linda has found not only artistic fulfilment, but a strong sense of community and creative expression.

Dal Monaghan took up painting later in life and loves exploring new styles, showing it’s never too late to learn. Her pieces reflect a deep curiosity and a growing confidence, and she looks forward to spending more time developing her skills with the support of the Escape Artists group.

One of Dal Monaghan’s art works

Robynn Morro paints large, joyful works full of vibrant colour and energy, from florals to portraiture.

After attending a number of workshops and developing her skills in oils, acrylics, and inks under the guidance of respected artist De Gillet, Robynn has emerged as a confident creator with a distinct voice.bration of beauty, vitality, and self-expression.

Marty Ironside, famous for her charming cow portraits, also returns to abstract work, bringing depth and imagination to her canvas. Her ability to balance whimsy with depth makes her work a standout in any exhibition.

But for the Escape Artists, the real highlight isn’t just the art, it’s the journey.

“Preparing for this exhibition each year is something we all look forward to,” Linda said.

“It’s about friendship, creativity, and sharing our passion with the public.”

The Escape Artists Exhibition opens Saturday, May 11 at Art at Jezzine and will run for several weeks.

Entry is free, and visitors are encouraged to come along and enjoy a visual escape with this vibrant, talented group.

Originally published as Vibrant art exhibition opens Mother’s Day