Reflections on art and service from the 2025 RME Downlands Art Exhibition
Looking fearless against evil / Trent Squires
White acrylic painting / Mixed Media / Charcoal / Smooth art paper / Custom framed by ARTSHOP.
Still carrying the inspiration of the 2025 RME Downlands Art Exhibition, we at ARTSHOP Toowoomba remain buoyed by the beauty and the generosity of people’s time and endeavours that defined this event. Held at Downlands College from September 20–24, the Graham Centre became a showcase of more than 800 artworks by local and international artists.
Now in its 38th year, the RME Downlands Art Exhibition is an event that engages the Downlands community and beyond with artists and their works. As the main fundraiser for the Parents and Friends Committee, it helps enhance College facilities, improve teaching and learning, and support the pastoral care of students. Over the years, proceeds have funded new art equipment, expanded the school’s art collection, and contributed to the future artist-in-residence program.
It was a privilege for ARTSHOP to be a Gold Sponsor of this event. Additionally, in my capacity as a Director of the exhibition's naming sponsor, I had the honour of speaking at the opening gala on Friday, September 19. I shared a message about the power of art to inspire, connect, and be of service to others. As I said that evening, I knew I was preaching to the converted when I observed that art lifts our souls.
Intentional beauty that shapes us
I shared a memory that has shaped me from an early age:
“I consider the first time I observed that something was beautiful. It was a fragrance—the jasmine on a summer morning—drifting through my window as I lay in bed, looking up into the colossal gum tree in our neighbour’s yard. A gentle breeze carried the scent from the garden my mother had planted, down the northern pathway beside our home. As I rolled my head to the side, I noticed the tiny cut-glass vase filled with fresh flowers, arranged by my mother and placed on a hand-embroidered placemat.”
It was more than a fragrance. It was something crafted with care and intention. My mother’s love of doing things well, her desire to create beauty, and her practical way of showing care for her family made me feel safe and treasured.
That same inspiration has shaped my career and continues to drive me to create spaces where others feel valued and encouraged to explore their creativity. I realised that I have spent my life working to create beautiful and safe environments. If I can create a space that is understanding and enriching, others may be encouraged to explore their potential and contribute great value to their communities.
Our artists live this same examined life—drawing deeply from their experiences, environments, and observations—and they skilfully translate messages and lessons for us in their work, providing opportunities for reflection, enrichment, and joy.
Celebrating the curator’s encouragement award
A highlight of the evening was the Curator’s Encouragement Award, presented by Dr. Johanna Guerin, McGregor Art Workshops Coordinator and Senior Operations Support Officer at the University of Southern Queensland.
The award was presented to local artist Hope Beliveau, who has worked on paper for many years, producing extensive portrait and detailed studies, as well as tranquil countryside scenes.
With this award, Hope will attend the 2026 McGregor Summer School—we know this will be an exciting next step in her creative journey.
Thank you to our curator and everyone involved
Guest curator Evan Hollis once again compiled a stunning showcase and we are deeply grateful to Evan for his vision, care, and commitment to excellence this year, and every year.
We also acknowledge all our fellow sponsors, and the many organisers and volunteers who brought this exhibition to life and made this event so meaningful.
The 2025 Downlands Exhibition embodied this spirit of service—art that not only uplifts but also serves.
Supporting generations of artistic expression
We sincerely acknowledge Downlands College for its enduring commitment to providing safe, nurturing environments where generations of young people can explore their creativity, artistic expression, and experience the rewards of service. The proceeds from this exhibition are a vitally important enabler of this program.
We extend our warmest thanks to those who engaged with the exhibition—collectors, supporters, and visitors alike—whose appreciation ensures many of this year’s works will continue to be seen, valued, and thoughtfully shared beyond the Graham Centre's walls.
To learn more about ARTSHOP's custom picture framing, art and object conservation, range of services and to discuss your needs, please reach out to our team.
Warm regards,
Cherylyn Russell
Director
ARTSHOP Fine Custom Picture Framing · Artwork Restoration
Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia
