Looking for something to do this week? Here are 65+ suggestions
Posted on
We’ll just leave this here.
This week in Canberra, the reimagined Canberra Paws Walk takes over Patrick White Lawn, Thrive Through Change brings together expert speakers, panel discussions, guided breathwork, and a mini wellness market, and the city’s first infrared-heated workout space opens.
Read on for your curated guide to what’s on in Canberra.
Don’t miss…
JIM Belconnen Grand Opening
Canberra exercise physiologist and mother of three Kirra Rankin has been helping Canberrans move better for years through her work at Capital Hydrotherapy & Exercise Physiology–and now she’s opened the city’s first infrared heated workout space. JIM (Joy In Movement) guides participants through 30-minute strength sessions under infrared heaters that promote circulation, reduce inflammation and increase flexibility. On Saturday, 23 May, the Belconnen studio throws open its doors for a full-morning grand opening with free infrared classes from 6 am to 1 pm, a free DJ from 11 am and giveaways all morning. Book a free class at the link below.
Saturday, 23 May, 6 am–1 pm | Block 2, Section 198, Market Street, Belconnen | grow-api.hapana.com
Canberra Wool Expo 2026
Now in its 13th year, the Canberra Wool Expo returns to the Old Bus Depot Markets in Kingston across two days in May. Over 180 market stalls will be on offer, including more than 50 specialty wool and fibre stalls featuring handmade, artisan, and farm-label products from producers across Canberra, regional NSW, Victoria, and interstate.
Visitors can watch live demonstrations in spinning, weaving, felting, and traditional fibre craft techniques, and browse hand-dyed yarns, designer knitwear, woollen garments, accessories, and homewares. Family-friendly highlights include animal encounters with Valais sheep Armani and Elvis, and alpaca Hephner.
Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 May, 9.30 am–2.30 pm | Old Bus Depot Markets, Wentworth Avenue, Kingston | obdm.com.au
Canberra Paws Walk
The reimagined Canberra Paws Walk takes over Patrick White Lawns on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin for a joyful community celebration of the bond between people and their pets. Inspired by the beloved Million Paws Walk, this year’s event combines a community walk with a Healthy Pet Day, giving owners access to support services and expert advice on pet-related pathways. Stalls, activities, live entertainment and delicious food ensure there’s plenty on for the whole family – with or without a dog in tow. Every step and every dollar raised goes toward caring for pets in need at RSPCA ACT and in the community.
Sunday 24 May, 9 am–2 pm (main walk starts 11 am) | Patrick White Lawns, Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes | fundraiserspcaact.com.au
Special Events and Festivals
Disco Revolution
Pull on your most dazzling outfit and head to the Zeppelin Room at Narrabundah’s Harmonie German Club for a night of pure disco magic. Disco Revolution delivers two massive live sets packed with iconic anthems paying tribute to ABBA, Tina Turner, Donna Summer, The Bee Gees, KC & The Sunshine Band and many more, all performed with the kind of fire and flair that keeps a dance floor moving all night. DJ Diggz kicks off the evening with a warm, funky groove as the doors open, setting the perfect tone for what promises to be a wildly energetic and thoroughly inclusive Canberra night out.
Friday, 22 May, 7 pm–11 pm | The Zeppelin Room, Narrabundah | events.humanitix.com
Canberra Wool Expo
The Old Bus Depot Markets in Kingston transforms into a wool lover’s paradise for the Canberra Wool Expo–a wonderful Saturday gathering of craftspeople, wool producers and artists from Canberra, the region and beyond. Browse hand-felted garments and accessories, designer knitwear, weavings, hand-spun and hand-dyed yarns, funky beanies and farm label knitwear, while demonstrations of hand-spinning to weaving bring the craft vividly to life. Whether a seasoned maker looking to stock up or simply someone who appreciates beautiful, handmade things, this is a richly rewarding morning at one of Kingston’s most loved market venues.
Saturday, 23 May, 9.30 am–2.30 pm | Old Bus Depot Markets, Kingston | obdm.com.au
Googong book exchange brings the community together
The Lions Club of Googong and Surrounds is hosting a one-day Community Book Exchange at the Googong Community Centre. Residents of all ages are invited to bring pre-loved books, browse donated titles and take home new reads–all under the “Bring a Book, Take a Book, Buy a Book” motto. Books are available to purchase for just $2.
The event also features a Lions information booth and participation from community partners including the Lions Club of Queanbeyan, Queanbeyan Palerang Regional Council and Queanbeyan Library. Over 200 books have already been donated for the exchange.
Saturday 23 May, 11 am–3 pm | Googong Community Centre | googong.nsw@lions.org.au
Together Strong Physio launch event
Together Strong Physio, a new women’s health clinic at Canberra Airport, opens its doors with a full-day launch event on Saturday 23 May. The clinic brings together physiotherapy, osteoporosis management and dietetics in a purpose-built strength and conditioning space.
The day opens with Strong Bones, Strong Women, a talk by physiotherapists Amy Yates and Millie Hofmann on exercise and bone density, followed by dietitian Dr Simone O’Neill presenting on nutrition strategies for midlife bone health. From 2:30 pm, the clinic opens for an informal open afternoon where visitors can tour the gym and meet the team.
Saturday 23 May, 11:30 am–4:30 pm | Together Strong Physio, 25 Mustang Avenue, Canberra Airport | togetherstrong.com.au
Sydney Writers’ Festival: Live and Local in Tuggeranong
Literary lovers can tune into one of Australia’s most celebrated festivals without leaving Canberra. Streaming live to Tuggeranong Arts Centre, this program brings thought-provoking conversations, panels and discussions from leading writers and thinkers directly to a local audience. Between sessions, attendees can connect over tea and coffee, creating a relaxed, community-focused atmosphere. It’s an accessible way to engage with big ideas, fresh perspectives and the power of storytelling—all from the comfort of the south side.
Until Sunday 24 May | Tuggeranong Arts Centre, Greenway | tuggeranongarts.com
Food + Drink
De Bortoli Wine Dinner at Jamison
Settle in for an evening that pairs thoughtful dining with standout wines at this curated dinner experience. A four-course menu, designed by Executive Chef Phoebe Tarrant, is matched with selections from De Bortoli, creating a cohesive and considered progression of flavours. Alongside the food and wine, guests can enjoy a relaxed social atmosphere, complete with a light-hearted mystery wine game and small surprises throughout the night. It’s a refined yet approachable way to explore new tastes in good company.
Friday 22 May, 6.30 pm–9.30 pm | Canberra Southern Cross Club Jamison, Macquarie | cscc.com.au
Lerida Estate Wine Dinner at the Yacht Club
An evening of elegant dining and locally produced wines awaits at this thoughtfully curated event. Each course is paired to highlight the character of Lerida Estate wines, showcasing the Canberra District’s reputation for cool-climate varietals. Set within a relaxed yet refined atmosphere, the experience focuses on flavour, balance and connection — bringing together food, wine and conversation in a way that feels both special and accessible.
Friday 22 May, 6.30 pm–9.30 pm | Canberra Southern Cross Club Tuggeranong, Greenway | cscc.com.au
The Brunch Club at Capitol Bar & Grill
Sunday mornings in Canberra just got a serious upgrade. Capitol Bar & Grill’s Brunch Club is an all-day, unapologetically indulgent affair built for those who believe weekends deserve better than a rushed coffee and toast. The menu runs from fluffy buttermilk pancakes and classic cheeseburgers with secret sauce to miso grilled salmon and a few cheeky surprises in between. The real centrepiece, though, is the Bloody Mary cart–a Ketel One Vodka partnership that lets guests load up with crispy bacon, blue cheese olives, dill pickles, mussels, chilli, and more, built tableside by the brunch bartenders. Running every Sunday until 30 August.
Every Sunday until 30 August | Capitol Bar & Grill, Marcus Clarke Street, Canberra | qthotels.com
Markets
Pandoras Recycled Fashions O’Connor – Everything Half Price Sale
Pandoras recycles high-end designer clothes, shoes, handbags, hats & jewellery. Top quality fashions at reasonable prices Everything you need to refresh your wardrobe from casual, work, evening or wedding. As the season changes Pandoras is having a half price sale to make room for all the fabulous Winter clothes we have ready to go.
Pandoras is based at St Philip’s Church in O’Connor and proceeds support local Canberra charities.
Half price sale dates are for three weeks on Saturday 18 and 25 April and 2 May. This is followed by the Winter launch on Saturday 9 May.
Pandoras is open every Saturday, 10 am–1 pm | Lamerton Centre, St Philips Church, Cnr Moorhouse and Macpherson Streets | facebook.com
Capital Region Farmers Market
This farmers’ market is iconic for a reason.
Go along to sample the region’s freshest produce from over 100 stallholders who bring freshly picked, grown and hand-crafted goods to Canberra and speak directly with growers and learn cooking tips while supporting the Rotary Club of Hall’s community projects.
It will make you appreciate your Saturday morning shopping trip in a whole new way.
Saturdays, 7 am-11:30 am | Exhibition Park in Canberra, Mitchell | capitalregionfarmersmarket.com.au
Old Bus Depot Markets
Lovers of fine hand-crafted wares, clothing collectors, food fanatics and jewellery junkies are just a few of the people who head to Canberra’s award-winning Old Bus Depot Markets every Sunday. In a fabulous old industrial building, you’ll experience the endless colour, tastes, sounds and atmosphere that is “Canberra’s Sunday Best”.
Not your average market, each week you’ll find over 200 stalls of exceptional quality, featuring items all hand-crafted by local and regional creatives. The sheer variety means you’ll discover something unexpected every visit, whether that’s a piece of pottery that speaks to you, a stunning necklace, or the perfect vintage find. There’s simply no better way to spend your Sunday in Canberra.
Sundays, 9.30 am – 2.30 pm | 21 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston | obdm.com.au
Southside Farmers Markets
This village market is located at Canberra College, making it the perfect place to duck in to grab what you need (and maybe a few things you don’t). Order an egg and bacon roll to start the morning as you explore the best of fresh seasonal veggies, handmade pasta, pet treats and more.
Sundays, 7 am -11.30 am | 2 Launceston Street, Phillip | facebook.com/SouthsideFarmersMarketCanberra
Haig Park Village Markets
Another local favourite, spend your Sunday morning browsing delicious cuisines, fresh produce, artisan products and locally handmade crafts while enjoying live music, an artists’ table and family-friendly activities.
It’s the kind of market where you can linger over breakfast, discover a new artist, and stock up on fresh produce all in one lovely morning, making it the perfect Sunday outing in leafy Braddon.
Sundays, 8 am – 2 pm | Haig Park, Girrahween Street, Braddon | haigparkvillagemarkets.com.au
Sport and Wellness
Fitness in The Park
Fitness class for all levels of fitness for the whole community. Join Ginninderry local Vince as he takes you through a group fitness class in the fresh air at Paddys Park.
Every Wednesday, 7.30 am to 8.30 am, Paddys Park, Asimus Avenue, Strathnairn | Find out more here.
Yoga at Ginninderry
Get bendy on Thursday evenings at a yoga class! You don’t need any experience – just head along for the slow-flow class that will help melt away tension, build strength and mobility, and give you a chance to recharge. Take along a yoga mat, water bottle, and comfy clothes.
Every Thursday, 6.45 pm to 7.45 pm | The Link, 1 McClymont Way, Strathnairn | More information here.
Raiders v Dolphins – NRL Round 12
Thursday night footy returns to GIO Stadium as the Canberra Raiders face the Dolphins in what promises to be a spirited Round 12 clash. With the Raiders looking to respond after last season’s result, the atmosphere is set to build from the first whistle. Expect the familiar roar of the crowd, the Viking Clap echoing through the stands, and plenty of family-friendly activity around the grounds. It’s an ideal midweek outing for Canberrans keen to soak up the energy of live sport.
Thursday 21 May, 7.50 pm–10.50 pm | GIO Stadium, Bruce | raiders.com.au
Go Girls Floorball series
Floorball ACT’s Go Girls series offers a free four-week come-and-try course for women and girls aged 12 and over. Running on Saturdays from 2–23 May at the Tuggeranong Archery Centre, the program introduces participants to floorball–a fast-paced indoor sport often described as ice hockey without the ice.
Sessions cover passing, shooting, positioning and goalie skills in a low-pressure, supportive environment. The series is designed and run by former Australian Women’s team representatives. Floorball ACT provides sticks and goalie equipment, so participants just need to bring comfortable clothes and a water bottle.
Until Saturday 23 May | Tuggeranong Archery Centre | floorballact.org.au
Music
Solo Flights and Shared Delights
The Wesley Lunchtime Concert series brings a delightful double bill to the Wesley Music Centre in Forrest, with outstanding young pianists David Fan and Jake Bennett from the Marie Cull Piano Studio performing a programme of solos and duets that spans from the Baroque period all the way through to the 21st century. It’s the kind of programme that showcases the remarkable range of the piano literature while putting two talented young performers front and centre–a combination that makes for an uplifting and genuinely satisfying midweek hour. At $15 including programme and refreshments, this is exceptional value for a Canberra lunch break.
Wednesday, 20 May, 12.40 pm–1.20 pm | Wesley Music Centre, Forrest | trybooking.com/DIJJK
The Australian Guitar Quartet
An evening of rich, expressive music awaits as the Australian Guitar Quartet takes the stage. Bringing together four internationally acclaimed guitarists, this performance showcases the versatility and depth of the instrument through thoughtful arrangements and collaborations. Expect a program that moves seamlessly between styles and moods, highlighting both technical brilliance and emotional resonance. Set within the intimate surrounds of The Street Theatre, it’s a chance to experience world-class musicianship right here in Canberra.
Thursday 21 May, 7.30 pm–9 pm | The Street Theatre, City | thestreet.org.au
Disco Revolution
Step onto the dance floor and into a high-energy celebration of disco at this vibrant live show. With DJ sets and powerhouse performances covering iconic hits from artists like ABBA, Donna Summer and the Bee Gees, the night is designed to keep the energy building. Expect bold outfits, immersive lighting and a crowd ready to move. It’s an unapologetically fun evening that leans into nostalgia while delivering a lively, feel-good atmosphere from start to finish.
Friday 22 May, 7 pm–11 pm | The Zeppelin Room, 49 Jerrabomberra Avenue, Narrabundah | events.humanitix.com
Lakeside at 5: The Leisa Keen Trio
Tuggeranong Arts Centre’s monthly after-work live music series Lakeside at 5 returns in May with the Leisa Keen Trio. One of Canberra’s busiest jazz combos, the trio–comprising piano/vocals, drums and a horn player–performs a smooth blend of jazz and pop standards with their own jazz-inflected arrangements, including Postmodern Jukebox-styled sets. Leisa Keen also brings 25 years of musical theatre and cabaret experience to the group. The relaxed lakeside setting by Lake Tuggeranong pairs live music with a glass of wine for an easy-going Friday evening. Entry is by donation.
Friday 22 May, 5.30 pm | Tuggeranong Arts Centre | tuggeranongarts.com
Sign on Screen Festival at the NFSA
The National Film and Sound Archive in Acton hosts a landmark three-day festival celebrating Deaf and Hard of Hearing perspectives and self-determination in filmmaking. Sign on Screen is an Australian Research Council-funded project exploring the representation of sign languages across cinema, television and digital screens, bringing together an extraordinary gathering of Deaf and HoH filmmakers, actors and academics. Keynote speaker Sofya Gollan, award-winning filmmaker Sam Martin, actor Nathan Borg, and Gutiŋarra Yunupiŋu–contributing vital Yolŋu Sign Language work–are among the special guests. A rare and genuinely significant opportunity for the Australian screen industry to connect with Deaf and HoH creatives.
Friday, 22 May–Sunday, 24 May | National Film and Sound Archive, Acton | nfsa.gov.au
The Sound of Bond 007
Experience the music of James Bond in a live performance that brings cinematic sound to the stage. Featuring the Canberra Jazz Orchestra and guest vocalists, the program spans decades of iconic themes, from sweeping ballads to bold, high-energy arrangements. The richness of a full big band adds depth and drama, capturing the unmistakable style of the Bond franchise. It’s a polished and engaging night of music that celebrates one of film’s most recognisable soundtracks.
Saturday 23 May, 8 pm–11 pm | The Zeppelin Room, 49 Jerrabomberra Avenue, Narrabundah | events.humanitix.com
Three Blind Cats
Celebrate the music of three legendary performers in this lively big band concert. Featuring songs made famous by Stevie Wonder, Diane Schuur and Ray Charles, the program brings together familiar favourites and timeless classics. Performed by ConneXion Big Band with a local vocalist, the show offers a rich, full sound in an inviting setting. It’s an easy-going afternoon or evening out for those who appreciate jazz, soul and the enduring appeal of great live music.
Sunday 24 May | The Zeppelin Room, 49 Jerrabomberra Avenue, Narrabundah | events.humanitix.com
Stage and Screen
Helios + Selene
Blending ancient myth with contemporary storytelling, this theatrical double bill reimagines Greek legends through a modern lens. Helios transports the tale of the sun god into present-day settings, while Selene offers a bold exploration of identity and transformation. Together, the works create a layered, thought-provoking experience that reflects on how stories evolve and resonate across time. It’s a striking addition to Canberra’s theatre scene, inviting audiences to see familiar myths in a new light.
Wednesday 20 to Saturday 23 May | Canberra Theatre Centre, City | canberratheatrecentre.com.au
Les Misérables
Victor Hugo’s epic masterpiece of redemption, justice and revolution comes to The Q in Queanbeyan for a sweeping two-week season of musical theatre at its most powerful. The story of Jean Valjean – a man condemned for stealing a loaf of bread who finds himself embroiled in a Parisian revolution – is one of the great moral narratives in Western literature, and this production brings it to life with the full force of an extraordinary cast and iconic score. From On My Own to Bring Him Home and Do You Hear the People Sing, these songs deserve to be heard live. Two performances daily across the season.
Friday 22 May until Saturday 6 June | 253 Crawford Street, Queanbeyan | theq.net.au
Louis Hanson – Good Boy!
Blending storytelling, multimedia and sharp humour, Louis Hanson brings his debut solo show to Canberra. Good Boy! explores personal moments and reflections through a mix of videos, music and comedic commentary, offering a glimpse behind the online persona. The result is a performance that feels both candid and entertaining, with plenty of unexpected turns along the way. For those familiar with his work – or simply curious – this is a chance to see a fresh voice in comedy take centre stage.
Friday 22 May, 7 pm–8 pm | The Street Theatre, City | comedy.com.au
Promise and Promiscuity
This one-woman show delivers a playful and inventive take on the world of Jane Austen. Blending comedy, music and storytelling, the performance brings a cast of characters to life through quick changes and clever writing. With its light-hearted approach and theatrical flair, the show balances satire with affection for its source material. It’s a lively and engaging production that offers something a little different for theatre lovers in Canberra.
Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 May | The Street Theatre, City | hotpink.co.nz
Sign on Screen Festival at the NFSA
The National Film and Sound Archive in Acton hosts a landmark three-day festival celebrating Deaf and Hard of Hearing perspectives and self-determination in filmmaking. Sign on Screen is an Australian Research Council-funded project exploring the representation of sign languages across cinema, television and digital screens, and this festival brings together an extraordinary gathering of Deaf and HoH filmmakers, actors and academics including Gutiŋarra Yunupiŋu, Sofya Gollan, Rodney Adams and Nathan Borg, among others. A rare and genuinely important opportunity for those working in the Australian screen industry to connect, network and build meaningful bridges with Deaf and HoH creatives.
Friday, 22 May–Sunday, 24 May | National Film and Sound Archive, Acton | nfsa.gov.au
Sheltering
This powerful triple bill explores themes of connection, place and cultural knowledge through contemporary dance. Featuring three distinct works, the program draws on First Nations perspectives to examine how stories are shared and sustained across generations. Each piece offers a unique lens, combining movement, music and visual storytelling to create an immersive experience. It’s a compelling addition to Canberra’s performing arts calendar, grounded in both tradition and innovation.
Saturday 23 May, Tuesday 26 and Wednesday 27 May | Canberra Theatre Centre, City | canberratheatrecentre.com.au
Talks and Workshops
The ‘Archival Imagination’ of Frank Moorhouse
Dive into the creative process of one of Australia’s most influential writers in this insightful talk at the National Library. Dr Matthew Lamb explores Frank Moorhouse’s concept of the ‘archival imagination’, examining how his use of notes, records and collections shaped his work. The session offers a deeper look at the relationship between research, creativity and identity, providing context for Moorhouse’s lasting impact on Australian literature. It’s a thoughtful event for readers and writers alike.
Tuesday 19 May, 12.30 pm–1.30 pm | National Library of Australia, Parkes | library.gov.au
12 Years In: Writing for the Future Library
Step into a fascinating conversation about literature, time and legacy at the National Library of Australia. This talk explores the Future Library project—a century-long artwork where authors contribute manuscripts to be read in 2114. Featuring insights from curator Anne Beate Hovind, the session invites reflection on storytelling, trust and the role of creativity across generations. It’s a thoughtful and quietly powerful event for readers, writers and anyone curious about the long arc of ideas.
Wednesday 20 May, 6 pm–7 pm | National Library of Australia, Parkes | library.gov.au
Yuma Yarn
Slow things down and tap into a creative rhythm with this coiled weaving workshop led by Wiradjiri artist Rechelle Turner. Participants will learn the meditative art of stitching and shaping raffia into their own unique piece, all within a relaxed, welcoming environment. Adding to the experience is live music from Wallabindi, creating a rich and immersive atmosphere as hands get to work. No prior experience is needed, making it an accessible and rewarding way to explore a new skill and connect with creativity.
Thursday 21 May, 5.30 pm–7.30 pm | Canberra Spinners and Weavers, Chifley | tuggeranongarts.com
CraftAlive Canberra
Crafters of all kinds will find plenty to explore at this four-day hands-on event. CraftAlive brings together local and interstate experts, offering a packed program of workshops, demonstrations and stalls filled with supplies and inspiration. Whether it’s sewing, scrapbooking, knitting or something entirely new, there’s an opportunity to learn directly from experienced makers. With interactive classes running daily, it’s as much about building skills as it is about discovering new creative passions within Canberra’s vibrant crafting community.
Thursday 21 until Sunday 24 May, 9.30 am–4 pm | EPIC – Budawang Pavilion, Flemington Road, Mitchell | craftalive.com.au
Create your own world & game workshop (ages 7–11)
This screen-free creative workshop at the Belconnen Community Centre invites children aged 7–11 to design their own imaginative world and turn it into a playable game to take home. Across the two-hour session, participants explore storytelling, creativity and problem-solving as they plan a game complete with a goal, path and challenges. The workshop is structured and guided, with an emphasis on creativity, confidence and independent thinking. Sessions are capped at 10 children, with all materials included.
Saturday 23 May, 3–5 pm | Belconnen Community Centre, 23 Swanson Court, Belconnen | trybooking.com
Infuse Whitlam: Holding, Space, Create with Sally Holliday
Local maker, art therapist and creative facilitator Sally Holliday brings a free hands-on basketry workshop to the SLA Display Village in Whitlam, guiding participants through the meditative basics of hidden coil basketry to create their own small trinket dish. Holliday’s approach is deliberately playful and curious–inviting participants to let go of any expectation of a perfect result in favour of genuine embodied making. Designed for adults of all creative skill levels and led by a professional artist, this is the kind of afternoon that leaves people feeling quietly surprised by what their hands can do. Registration strongly encouraged.
Saturday, 23 May, 12.30 pm–3.30 pm | SLA Display Village, Whitlam | belcoarts.com.au
Playback (or, a Play About But Not Starring A Famous Politician)
Canberra-based writer and former press gallery journalist Tom Glassey has spent considerable time trying to make sense of Scott Morrison–and the result is a sharp, satirical world premiere at The Street Theatre that’s as funny as it is unsettling. Deborah, recently aged out of broadcast television and now hosting the Proper Gander podcast, sees Morrison’s valedictory as her last real shot at a meaningful interview. What follows is a fast-paced, multimedia collision of podcasting, playmaking and screen, directed by AWGIE-nominated Craig Alexander and featuring Andrea Close and Tyler Jenkins. Political theatre that remembers the people Morrison’s decisions actually affected.
Saturday, 23 May–Sunday, 31 May | The Street Theatre, City | thestreet.org.au
Artist in conversation: Karlina Mitchell with Dan Toua
PhotoAccess in Griffith hosts a rich and timely conversation between artist Karlina Mitchell and independent curator Dan Toua, exploring Mitchell’s exhibition Nanuma–a body of work that directly challenges the authority of the colonial photograph. By centring iTaukei perspectives and the stories held within landscapes, Nanuma seeks to transform the colonial gaze into a platform for self-representation and cultural continuity. It’s the kind of exhibition talk that deepens and reframes an already compelling body of work, offering visitors a genuinely illuminating hour with an artist working at the intersection of photography, memory and identity.
Saturday, 23 May, 1 pm–2 pm | PhotoAccess, Griffith | photoaccess.org.au
Glass & Wood: Glassblowing and Woodcarving Class
Spend a day learning two traditional crafts in this hands-on workshop at Canberra Glassworks. Participants will carve their own wooden spoon before stepping into the Hotshop for a guided glassblowing session, creating a matching bowl. With expert instruction throughout, the experience offers both skill-building and a chance to try something new. By the end of the day, attendees will leave with handmade pieces and a deeper appreciation for these time-honoured techniques.
Sunday 24 May, 10 am–4 pm | Canberra Glassworks, Kingston | canberraglassworks.com
Exhibitions
Of Ravens and Rivers: Kerry McInnis and Mike MacGregor
Kerry McInnis and Mike MacGregor are two Canberra artists united by a shared interest in the environment, landscape, wildlife and waterways.
McInnis’s paintings of waterways explore the river as a conduit of life and a metaphor for survival, depicting the interconnectedness between river and earth. MacGregor’s drawings and sculptures juxtapose the forms of Man and the Raven, illustrating the remarkable connection between the two.
Together, their works form a conversation about the natural world and our place within it. Of Ravens and Rivers opens at the Pivot Gallery on Friday 22 May and runs through to 5 July.
Friday 22 May–Sunday 5 July, 10 am–4 pm Tue–Sun | Belconnen Arts Centre, West Gallery, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au
Abstract Connotations: Brian Hincksman
Brian Hincksman’s Abstract Connotations presents a body of work that pushes back against rapid technological and social change by turning attention to the natural environment. Hincksman’s process moves between contemplation and action, responding to the fluidity of paint through colour, form, tone and varied mark-making. The resulting works aim to inspire respect for common humanity, explore the beauty and power of the natural world, and imagine ways of living in greater harmony with each other.
Friday 22 May–Sunday 5 July, 10 am–4 pm Tue–Sun | Belconnen Arts Centre, West Gallery, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au
Becoming Now: Barbara Dawson
Barbara Dawson’s Becoming Now uses botanical forms as the central language for exploring the human journey. Across charcoal drawing, stitched textiles and photographic silk pieces, the exhibition examines themes of endurance, presence and emotional resonance–using plants as vessels to reflect lived experience. Dawson’s work explores the tension between strength and vulnerability, suggesting that human experience is layered, evolving, and shaped by connection, memory and time.
Friday 22 May–Sunday 5 July, 10 am–4 pm Tue–Sun | Belconnen Arts Centre, West Gallery, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au
Dear earth…
Dear earth… is an open A5 unframed exhibition bringing together artists from throughout Australia to explore the concept of “earth”–our home, the environment, soil, land, and all that lives within it. Artists of all ages, viewpoints and levels of experience respond to this theme through drawing, painting, printmaking, photography and mixed media. The resulting collection provokes awareness, dialogue, political activism, experimentation and deep contemplation. Visitors are invited to vote for their favourite work in the People’s Choice Award.
Friday 22 May–Sunday 5 July, 10 am–4 pm Tue–Sun | Belconnen Arts Centre, West Gallery, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au
Works: Steve Roper
Steve Roper’s Works brings together a collection of abstract drawings on paper, made using pencil, crayons, ink and watercolour. Line and colour have long been the foundation of Roper’s practice–he tends to draw with line rather than tone, producing works that are not necessarily representations of things but that may evoke subjects. For Roper, the appeal of abstract art is that it offers anyone the opportunity to experience it and interpret it on their own terms.
Friday 22 May–Sunday 5 July, 10 am–4 pm Tue–Sun | Belconnen Arts Centre, West Gallery, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au
Barbara O’Ryan at Q Gallery
At 93, Barbara O’Ryan is still painting with the kind of energetic curiosity that puts most of us to shame. This new exhibition at Q Gallery in Ainslie brings together vibrant acrylic works drawn from a lifetime of exploration across abstraction, printmaking, etching and illustration–with the Australian bush, her garden, family and travels providing the wellspring of ideas. An art teacher and children’s book author, O’Ryan moves between poetry and painting with a fluency that speaks to decades of attentive looking. Her current large-scale canvases are alive with colour–the work of someone who has found her medium and is making the very most of it.
Opening night Friday, 22 May, 6 pm–8 pm; on view until Thursday, 28 May | Q Gallery, 13A Edgar Street, Ainslie | q-gallery.com.au
Robbie Howard at Q Gallery
Q Gallery in Ainslie opens a new exhibition this week, welcoming the paintings of Robbie Howard–an artist whose creative life has taken many rich and varied forms. Born in Goulburn with deep connections to the Collector district, Howard has worked across wallpaper design with Florence Broadhurst, fabric and interiors, and co-founded the beloved Lynwood Café before channelling that same instinct for beauty into landscape painting. Her works, often created quietly outdoors, capture the particular light, mood and character of places she knows with genuine intimacy. An exhibition shaped by a life spent paying close attention to the world around her.
Until Thursday 21 May | Q Gallery, 13A Edgar Street, Ainslie | q-gallery.com.au
Works
Explore the expressive possibilities of line and colour in this exhibition by artist Steve Roper. Featuring a collection of abstract works across pencil, ink, crayon and watercolour, the exhibition reflects an ongoing exploration of form, movement and perception. The pieces invite viewers to interpret shapes and patterns in their own way, creating a personal connection with the work. It’s a thoughtful and quietly engaging showcase that highlights the evolving nature of artistic practice.
Friday 22 May until Sunday 5 July | Belconnen Arts Centre, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au
Abstract Connotations
This exhibition delves into the relationship between human experience and the natural world through a series of contemporary abstract works. Using colour, form and fluid mark-making, the artist explores themes of change, connection and coexistence. Each piece reflects a balance between contemplation and spontaneity, encouraging viewers to consider their own place within a shifting environment. It’s a visually engaging and reflective exhibition that speaks to both personal and shared experiences.
Friday 22 May until Sunday 5 July | Belconnen Arts Centre, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au
Becoming Now
Through layered materials and delicate textures, this exhibition reflects on ageing as a process of growth and transformation. Drawing on plant life as a central metaphor, the works explore cycles of change, resilience and renewal. Combining charcoal drawings, stitched textiles and photographic elements, the pieces offer a quiet, contemplative experience. It’s an exhibition that invites viewers to pause and consider the richness of lived experience through both subtle and striking visual forms.
Friday 22 May until Sunday 5 July | Belconnen Arts Centre, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au
Of Ravens and Rivers
This collaborative exhibition brings together two artists exploring shared themes of landscape, wildlife and connection to place. Through painting, drawing and sculpture, the works reflect on the relationship between natural environments and human experience. From interpretations of river systems to studies of the raven, each piece offers a layered perspective on coexistence and observation. It’s a considered and immersive exhibition that highlights the depth of long-term creative practice.
Friday 22 May until Sunday 5 July | Belconnen Arts Centre, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au
STAUNCH.
The STAUNCH. Collective presents works by seven First Nations artists exploring Culture as a resistance practice. Rodriguez Nalorlman Pindiying, Georgia Hoskinson, Sandy Harvey, Shanysa Jayde McConville, Marcus Maye Wright, Nic Ingram and Maggie Douglas each bring distinct creative practices–from digital heritage and film photography to printmaking and storytelling–drawing from Country, community and collaboration.
The exhibition centres experiences of growth, connection and healing, opening space for discussion and joy. STAUNCH. invites consideration of what resistance looks like for First Peoples and how colonial structures are upheld or challenged. Entry is free.
Until Saturday 23 May, 12–4 pm | Craft + Design Canberra, North Building, 1, 180 London Cct, Canberra | craftanddesigncanberra.org
Rewild: 2025 artists-in-residence exhibition
Artists Michele Grimston and Hannah McKellar present new work developed through the 2025 Craft + Design Canberra Artist-in-Residence program at Cinerea Cottage in Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve. Framed by the theme of rewilding, the residency combined time immersed in the landscape with a research component undertaken in partnership with the National Zoo and Aquarium.
Grimston explores slow, meditative textile processes–walking, stitching and drawing–to capture layered sensory impressions of place. McKellar uses hand-embroidered sculptures, watercolour and ink drawings to reimagine conventional cartography through tactile techniques.
Until Saturday 23 May, 12–4 pm | Craft + Design Canberra, North Building, 1, 180 London Cct, Canberra | craftanddesigncanberra.org
Extra Padding
‘Extra Padding’ is the third iteration of an ongoing project exploring quilting and textile art. In this exhibition, the threads of the quietly contemplative, the technically attentive, and the mysterious weave together with the radical, the interpersonal, and the exploratory.
Until Sunday 24 May | Platform, 19 Furneaux Street, Forrest | canberracontemporary.com.au
Bling Bling: Lee Nelms, Liz Crowe and Jacqui Keogh at Canberra Potters Gallery
Bling Bling brings together three Canberra region ceramic artists in a contemporary exploration of decoration and the vessel at the Canberra Potters Gallery, Watson. Embracing the aesthetic and occasionally excessive qualities of bling, the exhibition celebrates surface and spectacle while inviting reflection on the cultural and artistic meanings underpinning the works. Lee Nelms combines playful form with functional intention; Liz Crowe presents tactile hand-built and wheel-thrown vessels incorporating copper wire, engobes and lustres; and Jacqui Keogh offers mid-century inspired carved forms finished with striking metallic glazes and lustres. Together, the three artists explore the vessel as a carrier of story, connection and individual expression. Entry is free.
Exhibition runs Tuesday–Friday 10 am–4 pm, Saturday–Sunday 10 am–2 pm, until 14 June | Canberra Potters Gallery, Watson Arts Centre, 1 Aspinall Street, Watson | canberrapotters.org.au
Pigment, Powder, Wax, Sand
Artists Dionysia Salas, Jacqueline Bradley, Roslyn Lemoh and Merryn Lloyd present Pigment, Powder, Wax, Sand at Tuggeranong Arts Centre. Born from years of friendship and shared creative dialogue, the exhibition brings together four distinct practices that run in parallel yet resonate with one another in quiet, material ways.
Since 2019 the artists have met regularly to discuss their work, and this exhibition reflects that ongoing conversation–a shared site where works, ideas and vulnerabilities sit side by side. A panel discussion with all four artists takes place on Saturday 2 May at 1:30 pm. Free entry.
Until Friday 13 June | Tuggeranong Arts Centre Gallery | tuggeranongarts.com
There and Back Again – Peter Bitmead
Peter Bitmead presents There and Back Again at Tuggeranong Arts Centre, an exhibition exploring his return to Canberra after 14 years farming in rural Tasmania. Working across printmaking, painting and ink, Bitmead examines the differences and surprising similarities between these two environments, past and present. The work reflects a circular journey encompassing several themes, both current and historical, united by underlying global concerns such as climate change. An artist talk on Saturday 16 May at 1:30 pm offers a chance to hear more about the ideas behind the work. Free entry to the gallery.
Until Friday 13 June | Tuggeranong Arts Centre Gallery | tuggeranongarts.com
Nature Speaks – Vladimir Gottwald and Kate Shaw
Nature Speaks at Tuggeranong Arts Centre pairs stone sculptures by Vladimir Gottwald with a large-scale drawing by Kate Shaw. Gottwald’s works are fashioned from found black limestone, shaped by nature over time into expressive zoomorphic and anthropomorphic forms. Shaw’s expansive drawing serves as a counterpoint to the sculptural pieces, creating a dialogue between two- and three-dimensional responses to the natural world. The exhibition sits alongside the centre’s other current shows, Pigment, Powder, Wax, Sand and There and Back Again, as part of TAC’s autumn gallery program. Free entry.
Until Friday 13 June | Tuggeranong Arts Centre Gallery | tuggeranongarts.com
BLAZE
BLAZE is an exciting group exhibition at Canberra Contemporary, featuring 8 emerging artists from the Kamberri/ Canberra region and beyond. Working across diverse mediums to address various themes ranging from identity and autonomy to the significance of today’s algorithmic culture and its effect on socialisation – the artists in BLAZE signal an exciting direction in contemporary visual arts practices today.
Until Saturday 20 June | Canberra Contemporary, 44 Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes | canberracontemporary.com.au
Group Exhibition: Iltja Ntjarra Art Centre and Jordan Benson
A remarkable cross-cultural dialogue opens at Canberra Glassworks in Kingston, bringing together Iltja Ntjarra Many Hands Art Centre artists Vanessa, Kathy, Dellina and Raelene Inkamala from Mparntwe (Alice Springs) alongside Melbourne-based artist Jordan Benson. The exhibition celebrates the enduring watercolour legacy of Albert Namatjira while placing it in conversation with Benson’s contemporary approach to traditional stained glass techniques. Together, they explore light, colour and transparency across two very different mediums – an expansion of their celebrated collaboration for the National Indigenous Art Triennial at the National Gallery of Australia. A genuinely special and culturally rich exhibition.
Until Friday 26 July | Canberra Glassworks, Kingston | canberraglassworks.com
Through the Window: Iltja Ntjarra Art Centre and Jordan Benson
A rich cross-cultural dialogue opens in the main gallery at Canberra Glassworks in Kingston, expanding on a celebrated collaboration first seen at the National Gallery of Australia’s National Indigenous Art Triennial. Artists Vanessa, Kathy, Dellina and Raelene Inkamala from Iltja Ntjarra Many Hands Art Centre in Mparntwe (Alice Springs) bring the enduring watercolour legacy of Albert Namatjira into conversation with Melbourne-based Jordan Benson’s contemporary approach to traditional stained glass techniques. Together they explore light, colour and transparency across two very different mediums, sharing skills and stories in an exhibition that honours culture while engaging boldly with the present.
Until Sunday 26 July | Canberra Glassworks, Kingston | canberraglassworks.com
Good Neighbour
Belconnen Arts Centre presents an offsite group exhibition at SLA Display Village and Innovation Precinct, Whitlam, curated by Brooke McEachern. A printmaker, glass blower, ceramist, mark maker and knifemaker come together celebrating local makers and quiet creative lives unfolding around us. Estelle Briedis, Hugo Curtis, Jacky Lo, Isobel Rayson and Dan Venables live and work in our neighbourhoods as familiar dog-walkers, corner café regulars or simply good neighbours. Through functional objects and considered craftsmanship, the exhibition presents works feeling personal and lived-with, as though gathered over time from friends and neighbours. The collaboration highlights the creative talent existing within everyday community spaces, making visible the artistic practice happening in homes and studios throughout Canberra’s suburbs.
Until Sunday, 13 July | SLA Display Village, Whitlam | belcoarts.com.au
Ngura Puḻka–Epic Country
One of the most ambitious exhibitions to open at the National Gallery of Australia this year, Ngura Puḻka–Epic Country showcases major works by senior First Nations artists and collectives from the APY Lands, Coober Pedy, and Adelaide. These large-scale paintings depict Country while celebrating the powerful Tjukurpa–the law and cultural stories–that lies within, rendered sometimes in explosions of colour, sometimes in muted, contemplative palettes. From the beginning of the APY art movement, these artists have embraced monumental works as the ultimate expression of cultural freedom. The result is an exhibition that is genuinely epic in both scale and significance.
Until Sunday, 23 August | National Gallery of Australia, Parkes | nga.gov.au
Trent Parke: The Christmas tree bucket
Trent Parke’s photographic series The Christmas tree bucket 2006–09 is a tender and darkly humorous portrayal of his extended family coming together to celebrate Christmas. The series showcases Parke’s distinctive and acclaimed visual style and his skilful use of light and colour, to transcendent effect.The Christmas tree bucket is a candid, unsettling and often absurd portrait of family life—centred on the chaos, rituals and contradictions of the suburban Australian Christmas. It is a fond, insider’s view—sharp but affectionate—and one that the participants, after initial bemusement, actively embraced.
Parke draws from the legacy of postwar American photography while retaining a distinctly personal visual language, using light and colour to transform the everyday. The resulting photographs are both intimate and theatrical, sometimes hilarious, sometimes poetic and haunting. The exhibition also features a small selection of work from Parke’s black-and-white series Minutes to midnight 2003‒04 and a number of his handmade concertina photobooks, which he sees as a central part of his practice.
Until Sunday 6 September | National Gallery, Parkes Place East, Parkes | nga.gov.au
Wangka Wakaṉutja: the story of the Papunya Literature Production Centre
Between 1979 and 1990, the Papunya Literature Production Centre produced hundreds of illustrated bilingual books–funny, moving, extraordinary documents of Pintupi-Luritja language and culture, guided by community Elders who were also pioneers of the Western Desert art movement. Many of those books have been held in the National Library’s collections ever since, and this landmark new exhibition finally brings them to life. Featuring stories, drawings, photographs, manuscripts, and oral histories drawn from multiple collections, it’s a profoundly significant celebration of Aboriginal literary culture, collective creativity, and the remarkable human effort to keep language alive across generations.
Until Sunday, 11 October | National Library of Australia, Parkes | library.gov.au/whats-on/exhibitions/wangka-wakanutja
Hop In! an immersive world of play
Canberra Museum and Gallery launches one of its most delightful exhibitions this April–and it’s designed for the youngest visitors. Hop In! turns the familiar family home inside out, shifting rooms in scale and perspective to invite children aged 3–12 to move, build, crawl, splash, and imagine in surprising new ways. Stretch out beneath a sky of clouds, create secret worlds under oversized furniture, or wander through reimagined kitchens and backyards where creativity has completely taken over. At the heart of the experience is Bunny Dearest, a gentle guiding companion created by artist Beci Orpin.
Until Sunday, 11 October | Canberra Museum and Gallery, London Circuit, Canberra | cmag.com.au
Illuminate: How Science Comes to Light
Questacon presents an interactive exhibition exploring the science of light through 13 hands-on exhibits. Visitors can experiment with light refraction, colour blending, shadow manipulation and reflection across multiple activity stations. The exhibition demonstrates how light travels, reflects and refracts, alongside displays of tools humans have developed to harness light. Activities include bending light, using sensors to create music, and working with lenses. The exhibition is designed for hands-on engagement with scientific concepts. Illuminate: How Science Comes to Light is a Museums Victoria Touring Exhibition running until November 2026.
Until Sunday, 22 November | Questacon–The National Science and Technology Centre, King Edward Terrace, Parkes | questacon.edu.au
Behind the Lines 2025: ‘Are We Rolling?’
Behind the Lines 2025: ‘Are We Rolling?’ celebrates the year’s best political cartoons.
Featuring established and emerging cartoonists from across Australia, this exhibition highlights the significant contribution they make to cultural and political debates through witty, insightful and often poignant satirical drawings.
This year our Behind the Lines theme is the cinema, acknowledging that, like some of our favourite movies, 2025 has been full of thrills and spills, romance and heartbreak, with plenty of unexpected plot twists. Australia’s cartoonists and illustrators have tackled many of the issues that made news, including the federal election, the cost of living, energy policy, interest rates, housing security, the economy, climate change and stories from overseas.
Until December 2026 | Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House | moadoph.gov.au
Gurindji Freedom Banners
A powerful new exhibition commemorating the pivotal 1966 Wave Hill Walk-off opens at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House. Gurindji Freedom Banners: Mumkurla-nginyi-ma parrngalinyparla–From the darkness into the light unites all ten hand-painted banners for the first time in years, telling the story of when Gurindji and neighbouring peoples, led by Vincent Lingiari AM, walked off Wave Hill Station on 23 August 1966.
Their demands for fair working conditions and return of traditional lands sparked landmark change, leading to the first handback of Aboriginal land in 1975 and paving the way for the Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1976. The textile banners were created in 2000 by 35 Gurindji people, many walk-off participants, with one recently recreated after going missing.
Now showing until late 2026 | Museum of Australian Democracy, Old Parliament House | moadoph.gov.au
Know My Name: Kee, Jackson and Delaunay
Know My Name: Kee, Jackson and Delaunay showcases two of Australia’s leading fashion designers: Linda Jackson and Jenny Kee, in conversation with international, multidisciplinary artist Sonia Delaunay (1885–1979).
The iconic and vibrant early designs of Kee and Jackson from the 1970s and early 1980s were directly inspired by the dynamic legacy of Delaunay, who was a member of the School of Paris and co-founder of Orphism, an art movement noted for its use of intense colours and abstract, geometric forms. As well as working in traditional mediums such as painting and printmaking, Delaunay’s practice also included textile, fashion, and theatre design.
For Jackson and Kee, who were beginning their shared journey in creating clothes as works of art, the discovery of Delaunay was revolutionary. This powerful display feature a rarely-seen collection of Kee and Jackson’s garments from their archives and are shown with the National Gallery’s collection of Delaunay’s prints, drawings, textiles and costumes.
Showing now | National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place East, Parkes | nga.gov.au
National Library of Australia Treasures Gallery
The National Library has millions of books, and the Treasures Gallery answers the frequently asked question, ‘Where are they’. They also collect other items. From maps and manuscripts to photographs and paintings, the Treasures Gallery is where you can find highlights from their vast physical and digital collections. Behind-the-scenes videos, pages from William Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice from the First Folio, a cedar bookcase carved by Dorothea Mackellar, photographs from the nation’s photo album, and a display of The Wiggles’ websites from 1997 to today from the Australian Web Archive are among the new additions.
Until December 2030 | National Library of Australia, Parkes | library.gov.au
Illustra: 50 Women for 50 Years
Illustra: 50 Women for 50 Years is a permanent portrait exhibition celebrating 50 years of women as residents at John XXIII College. Featuring fifty alumni, the exhibition pairs portraiture with personal reflections to capture the evolving experience of women across five decades. Photographed by ANU School of Art graduate Bronte Morel across Australia and internationally, each work is set in a location of personal significance. Together, the collection forms an intergenerational narrative of leadership, identity and community, recognising the enduring contribution of women to the College and beyond.
Permanent exhibition, open 9 am–5 pm daily | Front foyer, John XXIII College, 51 Daley Road, Australian National University, Canberra | johnxxiii.anu.edu.au
