11 local painters to have on your radar
Toowoomba artists have proven there’s no place like home when looking for original, eye-catching artworks. Whether it’s for your living room, office, or a gift for a friend, we’ve rounded up a selection of painters whose work will add some much-appreciated inspiration to your life.
Updated on 15 August 2021
Written by Nicola Clark
Photograph by Morgan Smith
We’re spoiled for talent in Toowoomba, with more artists than we could possibly shake a paintbrush at. Here is a non-comprehensive round-up of some amazing local artists to have on your radar. Let us know if we should do a Part 2!
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DOMI DOOLAMAI
Alongside daughter Cara, Domi founded the namesake Doolamai Designs in 2019. The gallery showcases both contemporary and traditional artwork by the artist. He also invites the community to find their Dreamtime journey with him, as well as commissioning unique paintings for homes and businesses. You can visit the gallery located on Taylor Street, around the corner from Emerge Café.
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ANNE O’SULLIVAN
This painter creates landscape works as well as scenes of domestic life. Her work has been exhibited across the country, from Darwin to Sydney, as well as many times in Toowoomba, in our own Regional Art Gallery and at the University of Southern Queensland. Anne also teaches students her craft at St Mary’s College. You can view her portfolio online, or pop into The Store Room on Campbell Street to explore her paintings.
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DIANE ELSDEN
Diane’s vivacious paintings are all about colour, colour, and more colour! Each of her original acyrlics is perfect for bringing a touch of spring into your space. This artist’s love for gardening and the great outdoors can be seen in her impressive portfolio of still life florals.
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CATHERINE PARKER
Much of this local’s art practice celebrates the unique Australian urban and natural landscape. Catherine also leads art tours across India, a country whose vibrant culture, people and spirituality has inspired the painter’s style. Catherine frequently exhibits in Brisbane, so make sure you catch any local shows to get a sneak peek (and first pick)!
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ANNA BATTLE
The mind behind Shiny Happy Art, Anna Battle leads workshops made to share the joy of drawing and painting with the community. The local celebrates nature in her work, from native animals to colourful bouquets, fitting for the Garden City. Anna has taught engaging in-person and online classes since 2015, and also sells her original vibrant pieces online, ready to find their forever home.
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HELEN MCCULLAGH
Making an international name for herself – including features in Belle, Martha Stewart Living, and House & Garden – Helen McCullagh crafts bright and beautiful still life pieces. For her, she paints “as a means of meditation, as a way of discovering”. It’s hard to not fall in love with the utterly feminine floral works.
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DAVID USHER
David Usher is beloved by the creative community for his art as much as his mentorship. Currently completing a doctorate through USQ, David’s abstract landscapes have been shown with several galleries, including Doggart and ALG, and has work is housed in the collections of the Queensland Art Gallery, Artbank, Brisbane City Hall Gallery and Queensland Potters Association.
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KATIE WHYTE
This mural painter brightens up the Garden City with funky patterns and minimalist mountain landscapes. You’ll see her work in Carnival Lane (off Margaret Street) as well as beloved café Burrow. Want your own mini-mural for your space? Katie also sells framed original pieces, often through Banter.
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NARJIA BROWNLIE
For Narjia, it’s all about the feminine condition and portraying women’s experiences through her work. Having only pursued art as a career since 2018, she manages to express complex relationships and celebrate the female body. Not only are her original works for sale, there’s also a range of smaller prints for your space and a weekly Instagram sale.
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FRANK MCCORMICK
Hailing from Cunnamulla and now a Toowoomba local, this artist delights in capturing the beautiful Australian landscape in oils. His serene scenes are regularly displayed in galleries around town, including the Toowoomba Art Society.
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MEGAN SHINE
Have you ever wanted the perfect gift for the animal-obsessed person in your life? Megan uses watercolours and oil paints to capture furry friends. When not painting pets, she also crafts compelling landscapes and realistic portraits – with pieces hung in the USA, UK and Canada.
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Did we miss your favourite local artist? Don’t worry! This list couldn’t possibly be comprehensive. Let us know, and we’ll create a Part 2!
