A Centre Inspired by Place
Tropical North Queensland’s World Heritage reefs and rainforests are at the heart of the region’s identity. They have sustained First Nations peoples for tens of thousands of years and continue to inspire generations of artists. Together, they form one of Australia’s richest natural and cultural landscapes.
Printmaking has been a defining part of that creative landscape since the 1980s. Shaped by First Nations artists, non-Indigenous practitioners and international collaborators, institutions including Djumbunji Press, InkMasters and NorthSite have played a vital role in developing printmaking across the region. Through relief printing, etching, monotype, screen printing and other techniques, artists have explored creative expression, experimentation and cultural storytelling, often drawing inspiration from the unique flora, fauna and cultures of Far North Queensland.
The Next Chapter
Since 2021, NorthSite has operated its Greenslopes Street Art Studio as the region’s printmaking hub. Building on this foundation, the Oceania Centre for Printmaking will launch in early 2027, expanding both the studio facilities and the scope of printmaking programs available to artists across the region.
The Centre will feature expanded screen printing facilities alongside new lithography and etching presses. Planning is also underway for a purpose-built facility that will include an additional printmaking studio, gallery and residential accommodation for visiting artists. Together, these developments will establish a significant new creative destination within the Cairns Cultural Precinct.
Programs
From 2027, the Oceania Centre for Printmaking will deliver an expanded program of activity, including:
- An enhanced Art Centre print development program based on a collaborative printmaking model.
- Expanded training and studio access across relief, intaglio, lino, woodblock, etching, monotype, screen printing and lithography.
- An integrated artist-in-residence program supporting creative exchange and professional development.
Working Together
Our highly experienced team, led by Senior Printmaker Dian Darmansjah, has extensive experience collaborating with First Nations artists and Arts and Culture Centres. NorthSite’s approach is grounded in long-term relationships and collaborative practice, fostering innovative, experimental printmaking while supporting artists at every stage of their careers—from beginners through to established practitioners.
Get Involved
Further program announcements will be released throughout the second half of 2026, with activities commencing in early 2027.
If you are interested in participating in the 2026 and 2027 programs, we’d love to hear from you. To stay up-to-date, sign up for our newsletter, or follow us on Instagram and Facebook.
For studio and workshop bookings, contact our Studio Coordinator Lauren Carter at studio@northsite.org.au or our Senior Printmaker Dian Darmansjah at printmaking@northsite.org.au.