About
Mission Statement
Umbrella Studio Association Incorporated is an inclusive, not-for-profit, members based, exhibition and studio space that drives innovation, invites experimentation, encourages excellence and inspires appreciation for Contemporary Visual Art in the North Queensland region.
Our Story
Umbrella Studio Association Incorporated is a Townsville based, not-for-profit contemporary arts organisation actively engaged in supporting contemporary visual arts in North Queensland and beyond, through diverse and innovative exhibition and public programs. First located in an empty shop front in Townsville's Flinders Street West, Umbrella was established in 1986 as a working studio space for a group of emerging Townsville artists.
Since the early 1990s, Umbrella has been transformed from an artists' collective offering practical facilities, to a funded and professionally managed contemporary arts organisation with a regular annual program of exhibitions and events for both artists and the general public. In 1998, Umbrella moved to its third home on the Victoria Bridge, and in 2000 to the ground floor of Northtown on the Mall, Flinders Mall. Finally in 2003 Umbrella moved to a large, historic two-storey building at 482 Flinders Street, offering multiple exhibition display areas, dedicated artist studio space, an arts library/resource room and more.
In keeping with our beginnings as an artist-run organisation, Umbrella continues an exciting program in close relationship with the local and national arts community and in particular with emerging artists. Umbrella seeks to host innovative exhibitions developed by leading contemporary art organisations from around Australia and overseas.
Townsville continues its rapid growth as North Queensland’s leading financial, industrial, tourism and educational centre. Umbrella Studio is ideally positioned as the key anchor organisation in community based contemporary arts in the region.
We are engaged in supporting contemporary visual arts in North Queensland and beyond, to achieve the following strategic priorities :
- Incubate and present contemporary artwork of the highest standard
- Increase public engagement in Umbrella Studio’s contemporary visual arts programs and activities.
- Effectively deliver services to the region and monitor service delivery
- Develop funding strategies to support and build Umbrella operations.
- Strengthening partnerships and collaborations.
The program is guided by a commitment to cultural diversity, and to supporting artists living and working in the region; from youth and early career to established artists working professionally. The exhibition program incorporates solo and collaborative exhibitions of studio-based work, and provides opportunities for contemporary artists working in new media and experimental modes of practice.
Board and Staff
Umbrella Studio's management team consists of the Board of Management working in direct consultation with the Director. The management team is a diverse group of professional people with a serious commitment to the development and promotion of contemporary arts practice.
Staff include a full-time Director, part-time Administrator, full-time Business Administration Trainee and a casual Gallery Officer. As well as contracting artists, writers and curators, Umbrella is also committed to engaging interested individuals in all facets of the organisation, through active participation in its thriving membership and volunteer program.
Staff
- Vicki Salisbury - Director
- Alana Mandryk - Administrator
- Alison McDonald - Gallery Assistant
- Aaron Ashley - Technical Officer
- Fiona Ryan - Casual Gallery Officer
Board of Management 2007
- Jill O'Sullivan - President
- Clive Hutchison - Secretary
- Robert Barton - Treasurer
- Committee
- Stephen Naylor
- Brian Edmond
- Shane Keen
- Jacquelina Jakovljevic
- Sally Ebringer
- Gail Mabo
- Advisors
- James McElvogue
