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New Indigenous Art Gallery at Mount Isa Officially Opened
An Indigenous art gallery that’s the first of its kind for Mount Isa has officially opened at Outback At Isa.
The opening of the Maltha Waru Arts Workshop took place this afternoon, Friday May 30, with Councillor Travis Crowther giving the opening speech.
The art gallery is the culmination of months of work of some of the Mount Isa area’s best Indigenous artists, as well as Outback at Isa staff.
It began operating in December last year, and was established specifically to display and sell art created by Indigenous artists from North West Queensland.
“Its creation is a result of Outback at Isa recognising a gap in our region: there were no dedicated Indigenous art galleries west of the coast – none in Mount Isa, or in the broader North West. And Outback at Isa wanted to change that,” Cr Crowther said.
“Indigenous artists from our region were often forced to travel to Cairns, Brisbane, or Alice Springs just to have their works seen and sold. In this gallery, local Indigenous artists have a dedicated, permanent space in Mount Isa where they can proudly display their works to a wider audience.
“Through this gallery, artists are sharing their stories with the world. And on behalf of the Outback at Isa Board, we are proud and honoured to be a part of its official opening. It is a very welcome addition to not just Outback at Isa, but to the Mount Isa community as a whole.”
As well as paintings, it features jewellery, textiles, carvings, spinifex paper, and contemporary works.
“Maltha waru” means “many paths” in the Kalkadoon language and represents the many paths that connect art, culture, and community.
Some of the artists featured in the gallery include Barbara Sam, Rebecca Sam, Hazel Munro, Sonya Pitjard, Mark Webb, Sheree Blackley, Mick Cooper, William Irvine, Carmel Donnelly, Cungelella Art, and Renae Carson.
Call Outback at Isa on (07) 4749 1555 to find out more.
A Creative Flame Ignites in the Outback: Mount Isa’s Maltha Waru Arts Workshop Opens Its Doors
A Cultural First for Mount Isa
Mount Isa, a town steeped in rugged outback heritage and rich cultural diversity, has just marked a significant milestone. The recent launch of the Maltha Waru Arts Workshop marks the first Indigenous art gallery of its kind in the area—an inspiring space that showcases the talent, stories, and traditions of local Indigenous artists.
A Name That Speaks of Light and Fire
“Maltha Waru” translates to “fire burns” in the Kalkadoon language, a fitting name for a creative space that radiates the warmth and brilliance of cultural expression. This new gallery is not only a place to admire beautiful artwork, but also a platform to ignite deeper conversations and connections between artists and the wider community. Every brushstroke tells a story, many of them passed down through generations, now brought to life on canvas, wood, and other traditional mediums.
More Than a Gallery—A Working Studio
What sets Maltha Waru apart is its dual purpose. It functions as both an exhibition space and a working studio. Visitors can witness artists in action, gaining insight into the methods and materials behind each piece. From ochre paints to intricate weaving techniques, the experience is immersive and authentic. The atmosphere is alive with creativity and collaboration, bridging the past with the present.
The Hands Behind the Vision
The workshop is the result of a strong partnership between local Indigenous artists and the dedicated team at Outback at Isa. Months of preparation, community input, and shared passion went into bringing this dream to life. For many of the participating artists, Maltha Waru is more than a professional achievement—it is a source of cultural pride and a tribute to their ancestors.
A Must-Visit for Art Lovers and Cultural Explorers
Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or a traveller keen to connect with the heart of the Outback, Maltha Waru Arts Workshop offers a unique and enriching stop on your journey. It celebrates the living traditions of Indigenous Australia in a way that is accessible, inclusive, and visually stunning.
Plan Your Visit
The Maltha Waru Arts Workshop is located within the Outback at Isa precinct, a central hub for visitors exploring the town’s heritage, natural beauty, and cultural landmarks. To learn more or to arrange a visit, go to:
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Free exhibition -The unbroken spirit of the Kalkadoons
24 August 2025
The unbroken spirit of the Kalkadoons is a tribute to survival and the enduring power of culture to heal both the land and its people.
Colleen Sam, Kalkadoon (Kalkadunga) woman and visual artist, and her mother, Aunty Ena Sam, share the powerful story of the Kalkadoon people’s resilience, survival, and unwavering strength.
Colleen’s artworks and animations, along with a series of digital stories, recount oral histories of her families’ resistance during one of the darkest periods in Queensland’s colonial past.
For generations, Colleen and Aunty Ena’s ancestors safeguarded their cultural knowledge in secret, ensuring that the Sam family’s identity remained strong, despite persistent efforts to erase it.
The exhibition features a dedicated learning and healing space, including a yarning circle for community discussions.
Family-friendly labels are displayed to support young people’s exploration and learning.
Indigenous Artist Program 2025 Participants
