Welcome Messages
Welcome to Pop Up North Queensland (PUNQ) 2024, celebrating powerful stories from talented artists entwined with the stunning landscapes of our state’s north.
From 1-18 August 2024, PUNQ will deliver artworks, performances and cultural experiences from Gurambilbarra / Townsville and Yunbenun / Magnetic Island to Warrgamay, Nywaigi and Bandjin Country / Hinchinbrook and Gudjal Country / Charters Towers.
Presented by Umbrella Studio Contemporary Arts in partnership with community arts and cultural organisations, PUNQ invites locals and visitors to connect with the cultures and stories of this remarkable region, from the Waymaker exhibition of Vicki Saylor and Pippa Samaya, which brings portraits of Indigenous Elders and their stories to billboards along regional highways, to Gail Mabo’s new artwork speaking truths about the history of South Sea Islander indentured labour in North Queensland.
The festival includes new works in sound, dance and screen from local and international artists, the vibrant, interactive public installation Art Fair: A Constructed World in Gurambilbarra/Townsville, and the PUNQ Art Trail – perfect for regional exploration.
Festivals such as PUNQ deliver on the Queensland Government’s Creative Together 2020-2030 strategy by elevating First Nations arts, strengthening communities, activating our unique places and spaces, sharing our stories and celebrating our storytellers.
The arts are a significant contributor to Queensland’s economy, and the Queensland Government is proud to support PUNQ 2024 and Umbrella Studio Contemporary Arts to provide employment opportunities for artists and arts workers, boost cultural tourism and grow North Queensland’s creative economy.
Please enjoy PUNQ 2024 - a creative journey to remember.
The Honourable Leeanne Enoch MP
Minister for Treaty, Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships,
Minister for Communities and Minister for the Arts
Pop Up North Queensland (PUNQ) 2024 truly shines a light on the diverse and rich arts and culture of our region, showcasing Townsville as the creative events capital of Northern Australia.
Townsville City Council is delighted to support such a unique expression of stories and cultural knowledge richly associated with our lands and the expanding understanding of all people and communities.
We are proud to continue our partnership with Umbrella Studio Contemporary Arts, exploring new possibilities across multiple genres as they continue to challenge and craft art in our backyard.
This festival supports our vision to Grow Townsville and embrace participation in the arts through multi-year community grant funding commitments from our Economic Activation Partnerships program. Alongside our own vision, the festival epitomises that of the Queensland Government’s 10 year Creative Together 2020-2030 vision to see Queensland transformed – socially, culturally and economically through arts, culture and creativity.
For those visiting the region, please take some time to explore the natural beauty of our surrounds and find out for yourself why Townsville really is the greatest city in Northern Australia.
Enjoy all that is PUNQ 2024, and we will see you again in 2026!