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‘Artists of the North Country’ Exhibition By World’s Oldest Continuous Living Culture At Mitchell Fine Arts

Mitchell Fine Arts presents the ‘Artists of the North Country: Arnhem Land and Beyond‘ exhibition in Fortitude Valley, a one-of-a-kind showcase, featuring awe-inspiring artworks from the world’s oldest, continuous living culture.

The Artists of the North Country exhibition brings together an incredible collection of artworks about the ‘North Country,’ gathered over four decades.

The untouched beauty of Arnhem Land, nestled in the northeastern corner of the Northern Territory and spanning an area of ~97,000 square kilometres, holds deep ties to Australia’s First Nations people, where a rich storytelling tradition has existed for the last 50,000 years.

The area continues to be one of the largest parcels of Aboriginal-owned land in Australia today.

Lorrkon: hollow wooden logs that serve as memorial poles
Photo Credit: Supplied

Visitors will marvel at the intricate bark paintings, the beautiful hollow log memorial poles, paintings, and other intricate works on paper.

Fresh Water Dreaming. Acrylic on Canvas by Sammy Blanasi
*“Animals depicted include the freshwater crayfish, crocodiles, eels and fish. The plant is the water lily which grows profusely in the billabongs in this country and are a food source.*“
Photo Credit: Supplied

Each piece is infused with creation events and stories of profound spiritual and cultural significance. Passed down through generations, these stories are preserved through dance, ceremony, and art.

Mimi Spirit. Acrylic on canvas by Paddy Fordham.
” *Mimi are reclusive, shy spirits that inhabit the rocky escarpment country around Gunbulunya in Western Arnhem land.* *Mimis are generally friendly, only becoming angry when a wrong is done to the innocent and the defenceless.* The painting depicts a single male Mimi.”
Photo credit: Mitchell Fine Arts

These remarkable works have been part of a private collection since the early 1980s. This is the first time they have gone on the market and serious collectors are expected to seize this unique opportunity to own a piece of history.

ONLINE PREVIEW

Mitchell Fine Art is conveniently located at 86 Arthur St in Fortitude Valley. Onsite parking is available and the gallery is open six days a week, from Monday to Friday between 10:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., and on Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The entire exhibition can be viewed online at www.mitchellfineartgallery.com.

Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to witness the richness and depth of Aboriginal art. Connect with the cultural heritage of the world’s oldest continuous living culture, right here in Fortitude Valley. Plan your visit today and let the ‘Artists of the North Country’ exhibition leave an indelible mark on your soul.

Follow Mitchell Fine Art on Facebook and Instagram, or sign up for their mailing list.

Published 6-July-2023

Indulge in a Gastronomic Paradise As the James Street Food and Wine Trail Returns in 2023!

The annual James Street Food and Wine Trail is back, so be prepared to go on a gastronomic journey this July that will take you through exotic tastings, limited-edition events, and a festive Market Day!

Read: Multimillion-Dollar Dining Concept Set to Bring New Life to Chinatown in Fortitude Valley

Trail Days

The first three days of the 4-day event are known as Trail Days, where participants can expect to attend tastings, ticketed in-venue events, and limited editions culinary treats.

From Thursday, 27 July to Saturday, 29 July 2023, “trail-seekers” will have the opportunity to explore a range of dishes from establishments in the inner city.

Food and Wine Trail — Photo credit: Gerard’s Bar/Facebook

Gerard’s Bar will kick off the festivities by hosting a Lebanese pizza party, where guests can experience the fusion of Lebanese flavours with the beloved pizza tradition.

Harveys Bar + Bistro will also join in, presenting the simple, refined food that has Chef and owner PJ McMillan’s unpretentious, seasonal cuisine so popular among the James St set.

For those with a sweet tooth, Jocelyn’s Provisions will present a delightful selection of their sweet and savoury winter offerings.

The Green, known for its Middle Eastern-inspired dishes, is preparing a special Friday-night dinner, allowing guests to savour a delectable meal in a vibrant and social setting.

Meanwhile, Cantinho will be bringing the flavours of Greece to the event, serving up tantalising souvlaki to conclude the workweek on a high note.

Fans of Italian and French fusion will be happy to know that Mosconi will also participate, with hopefully some of the crowd favourites such as Cheese served with pear, quince, fennel and raisin crostini or delicious pasta selections on offer.

Market Day

The pot of gold at the end of this colourful culinary trail is Market Day. On Sunday, 30 July, the entire stretch of James Street, from McLachlan to Arthur Street, will be transformed into a sprawling culinary market.

Market Day will be a feast for the senses.

The street will transform into one immense dining room, where visitors can sample restaurant-quality food and drinks provided by the leading venues of James Street.

Five live music stages will keep the street buzzing with melodious tunes throughout the day.

There will be special activities for children so families can enjoy the festivities together.

Tables will be set up for communal dining, and dance parties will add an extra element of excitement to the festivities.

With more than 20,000 attendees in 2022, the James Street Food and Wine Trail has solidified its place as a must-attend event for food lovers. The 2023 edition promises an even more exceptional experience, with participating venues offering unique menus and experiences.

Read: The GPO Hotel to Unveil Its Stunning Transformation

Visit James St’s website for more information about the 2023 Food and Wine Trail.

Published 3-July-2023

The GPO Hotel to Unveil Its Stunning Transformation

Photo Credit: Kgbo, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

The GPO Hotel in Fortitude Valley is getting ready to reopen its doors on 8 July after a massive $9-million transformation.

The interior of the GPO Hotel has been completely revamped, creating new and exciting spaces for visitors to enjoy. The upper level will be home to The Gatsby, a luxurious lounge bar with plush velvet booths, elegant leather accents, and stylish brass features.

The Gatsby offers a sophisticated and upscale atmosphere. One of the highlights is the restored original vault from 1887, now serving as a centrepiece. Alongside a wide array of alcoholic beverages and soulful tunes of saxophones, guests will be treated to a fantastic selection of cocktails.

The GPO Hotel to Unveil Its Stunning Transformation — *Photo Credit: Artesian Hospitality Corp /* gatsbylounge.au

But that’s not all! On the ground floor, there awaits a contemporary restaurant known as TAMA. Picture a stunning double-storey atrium adorned with lofty ceilings and expansive windows, allowing the warm glow of natural light to fill the space. Within the captivating retro ambience of TAMA, patrons will have the pleasure of savouring a truly exceptional dining experience.

Executive Chef Richard Ousby, who honed his culinary skills at renowned eateries including the Waterside Inn in England and Quay in Sydney, has prepared an excellent lunch. Guests can experience mouthwatering pasta dishes, hand-selected seafood, and premium meat cuts, including a delicious two-kilogram Angus tomahawk and wagyu scotch fillet prepared to order.

The extensive wine selection of over 1,000 handpicked bottles, including exclusive vintages, ensures there is something to suit every budget.

The project successfully blends modern finishes with the building’s original architectural elements, such as exposed beams, brickwork, and the Victorian Italianate facade, preserving its historic charm.

In the future, the GPO Hotel plans to introduce The Tax Office, a lively venue perfect for post-work drinks and midweek dinners. With an island bar and comfortable lounge-style seating, The Tax Office aims to create a vibrant and welcoming space for patrons to relax and socialise.

Published 28-June-2023

Multimillion-Dollar Dining Concept Set to Bring New Life to Chinatown in Fortitude Valley

Chinatown in Fortitude Valley is set to experience a vibrant revival with the introduction of a groundbreaking dining concept that promises to breathe new life into the struggling precinct.

Renowned chef and hospitality expert, Vince Moefa’auo, the mastermind behind the successful Bowen Hills cafe Halo Ground, is gearing up to launch Mr Duncan later this year. This ambitious project will feature a 300-seat restaurant and bar, housing five individually operated kitchens that will serve diverse cuisines.

The innovative concept of Mr Duncan allows diners to order from multiple cuisines simultaneously, enabling them to enjoy a variety of flavors in a shared dining experience.

With the gradual decline of Chinatown, which has been marred by vacant storefronts and “for lease” signs, Moefa’auo believes that revitalisation is long overdue. He expressed his passion for the area, stating that Chinatown is “one most important parts of Brissie and one of our food districts.”

As a former chef at Brisbane’s renowned fine dining establishment Esquire and Melbourne’s esteemed Vue de Monde, Moefa’auo’s expertise and vision are expected to attract businesses and patrons back to the Chinatown precinct. By providing a range of affordable culinary options from different vendors, he aims to create a bustling atmosphere that entices new markets to invest and brings additional offerings to the area.

In addition to the expansive restaurant and bar, Moefa’auo is actively pursuing Council approval to construct a kiosk-style bar and eatery in the heart of the mall. This strategic move aims to further encourage foot traffic and inject vibrancy into the once stark strip.

“It’s all about enlivening the street. Brunswick St is the party district, and this is more the start-off district, where you come first for a few drinks and to eat,” Moefa’auo said.

Three of the five eateries for Mr Duncan have already been confirmed. Diners can expect a Japanese, Vietnamese, and a meat-focused operator. The daytime menu will feature a casual selection, including sushi, banh mi, and pork and gravy rolls. As the day progresses into the evening, the menu will transition to a more premium dining experience, offering sashimi, charcuterie, whole fish, and shareable 1kg+ Tomahawk steaks.

Anticipation is building as the opening of Mr Duncan is slated for November 2023.

Published 25-June-2023

Discover a Slice of Southern California in Fortitude Valley at Viva La Cali

Photo Credit: Viva La Cali / Instagram

Fortitude Valley’s California Lane now has a vibrant addition called Viva La Cali, an eatery inspired by the sunny shores of Southern California.

Created by Marc Grey and chef Steve Maiden, Viva La Cali brings the lively cuisine and relaxed vibe of the region to Brisbane, Australia.

Grey and Maiden have expanded their vision with Viva La Cali, immersing patrons in the captivating essence of California. His travels on California’s south coast, where he was drawn to the food scene, gave Grey his inspiration.

Discover a Slice of Southern California in Fortitude Valley at Viva La Cali — Photo Credit: Viva La Cali / Instagram

Nestled in the heart of California Lane, Viva La Cali creates an inviting ambience. Steen Jones’ palm tree-heavy artwork adorns the venue, capturing an authentic Californian atmosphere. The space, spanning 80 square meters, features exposed brick, dark timber accents, and lush greenery with hanging pot plants and palm trees. The venue offers seating for up to 50 guests seated or 70 in a cocktail-style setup.

As for the food, Chef Maiden skilfully blends flavours from Central and South America, with a focus on Mexican and Peruvian cuisines. Drawing from his experience at Baja Fortitude Valley, he offers tantalising dishes that pay homage to the region. The menu includes five distinct tacos, such as beef carnitas with pineapple and habanero salsa, and a banh mi-inspired option with crispy chicken, pickled vegetables, and pate.

Other notable dishes include causa rellena, a layered potato and chicken dish from Peru, and Peruvian empanadas. For dessert, patrons can indulge in picarones, and crispy fried doughnuts with a chancaca glaze.

To complement the flavourful fare, Grey crafts an impressive cocktail menu, showcasing his passion for mixology. Each element, from syrups to bitters, is made in-house. Guests can enjoy innovative creations like the Watermelon Margy Hiiiii, featuring house-made watermelon cordial and a natural watermelon rind sour strap, or the Bugs Bunny Margarita with house-made sour carrot juice. Classic favourites like Margaritas and Palomas also grace the menu. A concise, Mediterranean-leaning wine list completes the beverage offerings.

Viva La Cali offers more than just a dining experience. On Sundays, they offer a $79 two-hour bottomless margarita and taco extravaganza. The establishment also hosts California Lane laneway parties with live music and local chef and kitchen takeovers, ensuring a lively and exciting atmosphere.

Viva La Cali captures the essence of Southern California, offering a memorable dining experience, expertly crafted cocktails, and a vibrant social atmosphere. Located in Fortitude Valley’s California Lane, this California-inspired gem promises an unforgettable taste of the Golden State.

Published 22-June-2023

Shortgrain Thai Store and Eatery Opening Soon in Fortitude Valley

Do you love Thai food? Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure as Shortgrain, a new Thai store and eatery, is set to open its doors at the Stewart and Hemmant building in Fortitude Valley in August 2023.

Read: Discover Antico: Burnett Lane’s Newest Bar Venture in Super Whatnot’s Former Location

Imagine the incredible taste of steamed duck and winter melon soup, or the pure delight of a perfectly fried whole fish with spicy green chilli nam jim.

At Shortgrain, you will feel like you have been transported straight to the vibrant streets of Thailand, where the flavours are bold and the aromas are irresistible.

But Shortgrain is not just going to be a place for amazing food. It’s a culinary treasure trove waiting to be discovered. They will also stock the shelves with homemade curry pastes, imported products, and the freshest ingredients you can imagine.

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A post shared by Martin Boetz (@shortgrainbymb)

From crunchy snake beans to fragrant Thai basil, each item is carefully chosen to create an authentic experience that will leave you wanting more.

The mastermind behind this culinary haven is none other than the award-winning Sydney chef, Martin Boetz. After leaving a mark on Sydney’s food scene with his extraordinary talent, Chef Boetz has now brought his expertise to his hometown of Brisbane.

When Chef Boetz stumbled upon the tenancy inside the historic Stewart and Hemmant building in Fortitude Valley, it was love at first sight. Boasting a spacious 225 sqm area adorned with high ceilings and large windows, this location provides the perfect canvas for Shortgrain to come to life.

Stewart and Hemmant building (Photo credit: Google Street View)

With Shortgrain, his vision is to create simple yet unforgettable dishes that are perfect for sharing or savouring on your own.

Read: Indulge in Culinary Delights as Festa Italiana Shines at Howard Smith Wharves

Chef Boetz is looking forward to opening his new venture by late August 2023, at the Stewart and Hemmant building, located at 2 McLachlan Street, Fortitude Valley. Follow @shortgrainbymb on Instagram to stay updated about the store’s opening.

Published 17-June-2023

Gotha Street Office Building Sold for $9.725-M in Fortitude Valley

A three-storey office building at 123 Gotha Street in Fortitude Valley has been sold to a local investor for an impressive $9.725 million.

Situated on a 902-square-metre inner-city site, the fully leased property has a net lettable area of 1,638 square metres and offers 23 secure car parking spaces. It is currently the headquarters of Torrens University Australia.

Despite the challenging environment created by the COVID-19 pandemic and fluctuating interest rates, the property has remained a steady source of income for its investors.

Cal Doggett, Managing Director of Properties & Pathways, expressed satisfaction with the sale. Acknowledging the bittersweet nature of parting with such a prime location in a developing area, Doggett emphasised that the decision was driven by the company’s commitment to putting investors’ interests first and exploring new investment opportunities.

One of the most attractive aspects of this property is its corner location. With a generous 30.4-metre frontage on Gotha Street and 27.2 metres on Agnes Street, the building has enormous potential for future development. Its location in “Brisbane’s fastest growing inner-city office market” made it an even more attractive investment opportunity.

Knight Frank’s Barker emphasised the value of this established asset and the opportunities it offers for repositioning and development. In addition to the building’s secure cash flow and high-quality covenant, the prospect of implementing a re-leasing initiative in line with the burgeoning occupier market in Fortitude Valley added significant value.

Generating a net income of $905,116 per annum with fixed reviews of 3.5%, the property’s impressive Weighted Average Lease Expiry (WALE) of 1.86 years by income is testament to its stability. Barker highlighted the potential to accommodate multiple tenancies, capitalising on the area’s popularity with occupiers. Accessible transport links and a wealth of amenities further enhance its appeal.

Fortitude Valley's 123 Gotha Street Office Building Sold for $9.725 Million, Promising Future Potential — Photo Credit: Maksym Kozlenko / Wikimedia Commons

Fortitude Valley’s continuous transformation, fueled by both public and private investments, adds allure to this property’s location. Renowned for its world-class shopping, exquisite dining options, stunning architecture and excellent transport infrastructure, the suburb has undergone a remarkable urban rejuvenation, cementing its status as a premier destination.

The sale at 123 Gotha Street is well timed to coincide with ongoing and future development projects in Fortitude Valley. These include the Valley Heart Precinct, Fortitude Valley Metro, Cross River Rail, Brisbane Metro, Brisbane Live, Waterfront Brisbane, Queens Wharf and the highly anticipated Brisbane 2032 Summer Olympics. The property is poised to reap the benefits of the area’s growth and the exciting prospects these projects bring.

Published 17 June 2023

Museum of Brisbane Celebrates 60 Years of Clay-Making at Brisbane Art Design 2023

In a vibrant celebration of Brisbane’s thriving art and design scene, the Museum of Brisbane marked a significant milestone with “60 Years of Clay-Making,” an exhibition for Brisbane Art Design 2023.

In its third biennial program, Brisbane Art Design (BAD) 2023 showcased the city’s finest visual, craft and design work — encouraging creativity and displaying Brisbane’s unique artistic voice.

Curated under the guidance of Cathy de Silva, BAD’s Executive Producer and Acting CEO of the Museum of Brisbane, the exhibition brought together a select collection of contemporary ceramics.

Unveiling the evolution of clay-making over six decades, this extraordinary showcase mirrored Brisbane’s arts sector’s growth and innovation.

“Our former CEO, Renai Grace, identified a need to celebrate the design and art sector in Brisbane and felt that MoB could bring together an event that would demonstrate Brisbane’s unique voice,” de Silva said.

Throughout the exhibition, audiences were captivated by the transformative power of clay and its ability to shape and redefine the artistic landscape. Brisbane Art Design 2023 was the culmination of 60 years of clay making, an achievement that stands as a testament to the city’s artistic heritage and promising future.

About the Museum of Brisbane

Museum of Brisbane Celebrates 60 Years of Clay-Making at Brisbane Art Design 2023 — View of the copper dome from the Museum of Brisbane.
Photo Credit: John Robert McPherson / Wikimedia Commons

The Museum of Brisbane, located within Brisbane City Hall, is a renowned history and art museum that serves as a hub for exploring the dynamic life, histories, and contemporary cultures of Brisbane. With a mission to “deepen the understanding of place,” the museum showcases the diverse people, passions, and ever-evolving cultural landscape of the city.

Situated on the top floor of City Hall in a purpose-built gallery, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the iconic Clock Tower and copper dome while immersing themselves in engaging exhibitions and immersive experiences. As a leading institution, the Museum of Brisbane invites individuals to discover and appreciate the vibrant culture and rich stories that shape the city’s identity.

For more information about the Museum of Brisbane, visit the website here.

Published 17 June 2023

Discover Antico: Burnett Lane’s Newest Bar Venture

Antico, a brand-new bar with an intimate Italian vibe, will soon open its doors on Burnett Lane.

Read: Experience a Perfect Blend of Tradition and Excellence at La Cache a Vin

Set to open in mid-July, Antico is the brainchild of the Cuatro Group, known for their impeccable transformation of heritage sites into thriving cocktail bars such as Death & Taxes, also along Burnett Lane and Dr Gimlette on Edward St.

Inside Death and Taxes Brisbane (Photo credit: Chris Buchanan/Google Maps)

The group’s vision has always revolved around creating an intimate space, manned by a team of two to three skilled bartenders. With this latest endeavour, they will finally see their dream come to fruition.

Photo credit: Death & Taxes Brisbane/Facebook

Drawing inspiration from its Italian roots, Antico will seamlessly blend the familiar elements of leather chairs, intricate tiling work, and a captivating black marble bar, all reminiscent of the group’s other two esteemed establishments in Brisbane.

Guests will be able to savour the flavours of Italy through a selection of delectable bar snacks, including bruschetta, cheese, and cold-cut meats. These tantalising offerings are set to complement the bar’s classic cocktail-oriented concept.

Read: Newly Revamped The Wickham Hotel Brings Back Fabulous Fun, Food, and Entertainment

The team plans to present a house Negroni featuring their distinctive vermouth blend, Campari, and a joint gin creation with Nosferatu, a distillery based in Bowen Hills.

In preparation for its July opening, Antico has transformed the space formerly occupied by Super Whatnot, giving it a whole new look and feel. The industrial vibe of Super Whatnot is gone, replaced with a warm and welcoming atmosphere that’s designed to make people feel comfortable and eager to be back.

Published 15-June-2023

New Entertainment Spaces, Revitalised Vibe as The Wickham Reopens

Photo Credit: The Wickham / thewickham.com.au

Cocktails served in disco balls. A weather-proof beer garden. Vibrant artwork set in whimsical spaces reminiscent of Alice in Wonderland and the pub’s peacock. These are some of the reasons why you should check out Fortitude Valley’s beloved pub, The Wickham, now open after an extensive makeover.

A fusion of heritage and contemporary design

With an investment of $3.1 million, The Wickham’s renovation has been a labour of love. The skilled team at Newline Design successfully merged the site’s heritage-listed elements with fresh aesthetics.

As you explore the venue, you’ll encounter a harmonious blend of historical charm and modern upgrades, creating a unique atmosphere that pays homage to the pub’s 138-year-old legacy. The addition of a new kitchen further enhances the culinary offerings, ensuring a delightful dining experience for all guests.

The Peacock Room and Garland Room

Among the revitalised spaces within The Wickham, the old corner bar and studio areas have been transformed into The Peacock Room and Garland Room, respectively. The Peacock Room exudes a relaxed atmosphere, featuring vintage furniture, local LGBTQIA+ artwork, and subtle nods to the pub’s beloved peacock, Frankie. It serves as the perfect spot for leisurely drinks and conversations.

Meanwhile, upstairs, the Garland Room awaits with an enchanting Alice in Wonderland theme, complete with eclectic wallpaper and furnishings. This whimsical space hosts the venue’s legendary club nights and offers a captivating setting for special celebrations.

Revamped The Wickham Hotel Brings Back Fabulous Fun, Food, and Entertainment — *Photo Credit: Facebook/ The* Wickham

The refurbished venue also brings back a plethora of entertainment options including the Thursday night trivia which takes place in the renovated beer garden, whilst live music performances energise the atmosphere from Friday to Sunday.

Additionally, drag shows are scheduled on Friday and Saturday evenings, showcasing the Valley’s best queens. The Peacock Room will also be home to a monthly bottomless brunch with a burlesque twist, as well as comedy events and more.

Culinary delights and quirky drinks

Under the guidance of Executive Chef Dylan Kemp, The Wickham presents a new menu. From stone-baked pizzas to delectable bar snacks and late-night options, the diverse selection caters to various dietary preferences, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free dishes.

Highlights include cauliflower hot bites, fried quail with truffle mash, and indulgent treats like deep-fried Golden Gaytimes and fairy bread. Moreover, furry companions are not forgotten, as The Wickham offers a dedicated dog menu featuring enticing options such as crispy pig skin, meatballs, and sweet treats like the Ruff Day bowl.

Not to forget, beverage Director Kevin Peters has crafted a drinks menu that pays homage to the 70s disco era. Expect a delightful array of creative concoctions, including the signature Disco Fruit Tingle cocktails served in eye-catching disco balls. Glitter Bellinis adorned with edible glitter and frozen G&Ts made with pineapple tonic add a touch of whimsy to the experience.

For those opting for non-alcoholic beverages, The Wickham has expanded its range of non-alcoholic wines, spirits, beers, and cocktails, featuring refreshing options such as the No-groni and the Espresso Marti-no.

If you haven’t experienced the magic of The Wickham recently, now’s the time to plan your visit and experience a fabulous evening packed with top-notch entertainment and delectable cuisine.

Whether you seek a relaxed afternoon in the beer garden or an exhilarating night of dancing, The Wickham promises an unforgettable experience.

For trading hours or if you would like to enquire or book a table, check out their website here.

Published 12-June-2023