About

Mission
To express and amplify our distinctive and authentic North Queensland voice.

Vision
To be an inclusive platform for independent, experimental contemporary arts practice in North Queensland.

Background
Umbrella Studio Contemporary Arts (Umbrella) sits at the nexus of Cairns, Mackay and Mt Isa on Gurambilbarra Wulgurukaba and Bindal Country (North Queensland). Umbrella is one of Australia’s longest-running contemporary art centres. Umbrella was established in 1986 as a working studio for a group of emerging Townsville artists as the only artist-run initiative and the first professional arts organisation north of Brisbane. It became incorporated in 1989 with six core artists who paid the studio rent, as well as full members who attended meetings, and a growing associate membership base. In 1991, a controversial decision was made to grow beyond the voluntary artist-run structure and engage a full-time paid administrator. Since the early 1990s Umbrella has been transformed from an artist collective, offering practical studio-based facilities, to a funded and professionally managed members-based contemporary arts organisation, with an annual program of exhibitions, public programs, and special events.

Members & Participants
Umbrella is a member-based organisation with over 250 active members, and this number is steadily increasing. Members are committed to the principles of the organisation, and are frequent visitors. Most participate in at least 6 annual events, volunteer or donate to fundraising activities at least once a year, and have been Umbrella Studio members for 3 or more years.

Strategic Plan 2021 – 2025

Annual Reports