Public Programs are accessed by all ages, from 2 year olds to adults.

ADULT FINE ART CLASSES

Adult Fine Art Classes are offered in drawing and painting. The classes are run in 5 week terms and provide an opportunity for small groups to learn fine art skills in a supportive environment.

» Fine art classes - Apr-Jun 2008

FLOOR TALKS

Floor Talks provide an opportunity for visitors to gain insight into the ideas and art practices that contribute to the development of each exhibition. Exhibiting artists and curators are invited to present a floor talk prior to the official launch of their exhibition.

» Artist and curator floor talks - Apr-Jun 2008

WEEKEND WORKSHOPS

Weekend workshops are hosted by exhibiting artists throughout the year. Topics range from installation and textiles to life drawing and painting.

» Weekend Workshops - Jan-Mar 2008

CHILDRENS PROGRAMS

• Holiday workshops are offered during every school holiday period. Workshops are hosted by local artists and based on exhibitions on display in the Gallery.
• Tiny Tacker Tuesday is designed for 2-5 year olds. Young children with their carers are treated to a morning of art appreciation, story telling and a creative activity.
• Kids Art Days are held throughout the school term on Saturday afternoons. Children enjoy a tour of the Gallery followed by a workshop based on artworks on display.

» Children's activities - Apr-Jun 2008

GRANTS, AWARDS, COURSES AND COMPETITIONS

The Gallery can provide information on grants, courses and competitions available both nationally and within Far North Queensland.

Artists are encouraged to make an appointment with the Public Programs Manager to discuss potential avenues of funding through Cairns City Council, Arts Queensland and various other funding bodies.

RESEARCH RESOURCES

A selection from the Cairns Regional Gallery Resource Library can be found in the Focus Gallery. This Gallery’s Resource Library specialises in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island art, particularly related to the Far North Queensland region.

The Focus Gallery provides a reading and research area ideal for student study or general reading.

Further information on specific topics can be sourced by the Public Programs Manager on request. Appointments can be made by calling 07 4046 4888.

SCHOOL TOURS

School tours are available Monday to Friday from 8:45am to 5:00pm.

All schools are required to book their Gallery visit through the Public Programs Manager at least five working days prior to attendance, however it is advised to book early so supporting information on current exhibitions can be sent pre-visit.

A Program Highlights poster is produced each October for the following year’s exhibition schedule. Schools are advised to use the calendar to plan future visits. A copy of the poster can be obtained free of charge by contacting the Gallery.

The student fee for booked school groups is $1 per student, or $2 per student for tertiary groups. Teachers and up to 4 carers per 20 students are free.

Maximum group size is 30 students per session, however this may vary depending on the students' age and the nature of the exhibitions on display.

For all Tour and Workshop bookings please contact Kate Hard, Public Programs Manager, on (07) 4046 4800 or programs@cairnsregionalgallery.com.au.

Education Kits

Education kits are designed to be used in association with exhibitions on display. Current education kits are available to educators on request.

Education kits from previous exhibitions can be downloaded below.

• Ilan Pasin: This is our Way
  Ilan Pasin reveals the evolution and strength of the somewhat hidden culture of the Torres Strait Islands, presenting artefacts from the nineteenth century alongside works from contemporary artists exploring issues of tradition and identity. (» Download this kit)
• Images of the North
  Images of the North features selected works from the Cairns Regional Gallery Collection. This collection is focused primarily around ideas and concepts relevant to the historical, environmental and cultural concerns of the people of Far North Queensland. (» Download this kit)
• The Artist’s Studio
  A guide of Ron McBurnie’s etchings featuring a variety of artist’s studios including Ray Crooke’s, Stephen Nothling’s and Helen Geier’s studio spaces. (» Download this kit)
• Encounters With Country: Landscapes of Ray Crooke
  Encounteers with country: landscapes of Ray Crooke explores the landscapes which have shaped Ray Crooke’s career from tropical North Queensland to the Hammersley Ranges in Western Australia and his most recently Hill End, NSW. (» Download this kit)
• Transience Travelling Schools Exhibition
  This education kit showcases local emerging artists from The Upholstery Collective who participated in the Transience Travelling Schools Exhibition, which toured regional schools in the Cairns and Hinterland areas. (» Download this kit)

Teacher Assistance

Specialised assistance for teachers is available by appointment. Topics can include:

• Advance previews of exhibitions
• Advice on planning projects in relation to exhibitions
• Planning school visits
• Developing school based art programs
• Information on specific Queensland artists and art movements
• Contacts for interstate art camp planning
• Professional development.

For further information regarding Public Programs, contact:

Kate Hard - Public Programs Manager
Tel: (07) 4046 4800
Email: programs@cairnsregionalgallery.com.au