McGregor Summer 2025 Masquerade Ball
Join us for an evening to celebrate creativity and community. Enjoy a drink on arrival, canapes, entertainment, raffle prizes, prize for best mask, and an art exhibition showcasing works created by attendees of the McGregor Summer 2025 Visual Arts Workshops, and guest artists/tutors. All ticket holders will have the chance to win a registration in the workshop of their choice at the McGregor Summer 2026 Visual Arts Workshops (T&Cs Apply).
Dress Code: Formal
Tickets: $80/Person
Friday, 17 January 2025, 7pm – 10pm
UniSQ Refectory, West Street, Toowoomba
Artist Talks & Demonstrations
Every afternoon from 13 – 16 January, 5.30pm
Artist Talks & Demonstrations will be held in the A Block Arts Theatre, UniSQ Toowoomba.
Paint Off!
Mona Lisa Smile
Paint Off! | Mona Lisa Smile
‘Mona Lisa Smile’ – Join Annette Raff and Rob Rek as they demonstrate their unique techniques and duel against the clock, recreating individual versions of the world’s most famous painting in under 45 minutes!
Annette Raff has an extensive knowledge of art and design fundamentals and is skilled in drawing and watercolour painting. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Art and Advanced Certificate in Art and Design. She enjoys exploring new ways with drawing, water mediums, printing, digital art and mixed media.
Rob Rek is a multi-award-winning professional artist and tutor, working from his studio in Brisbane since 2006. His sought-after artworks are driven by the pursuit of perfection. Rek’s paintings are rooted in decadence and the beauty that surrounds us; he is best known for his painstakingly exact ultra-realistic works with their impossibly fine details.
Make Off!
Material, Time, Process
Make Off! | Material, Time, Process
Observe techniques and tools of the trade in action as Kathryn Wardill, Catherine Large, and Jill Kinnear discuss layered processes, resulting in sculptural and tactile outcomes in glass, enamel, and fabric.
Kathryn Wardill is a contemporary glass artist and jeweller who received her Master of Arts, in Fine Art by research from RMIT University. Wardill has actively participated in group and solo exhibitions internationally for over 30 years. Wardill is dedicated to researching jewellery objects combining glass and metal.
Catherine Large is a contemporary jeweller and metalsmith based in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. She has a Masters of Visual Art and has taught in Jewellery and Small Objects QCA, Griffith University and is currently a tutor at the Brisbane Institute of Art. Large draws on her experiences of travel and the nature of ‘stuff’ to inform her work in jewellery, objects and flatware.
Born in Scotland, Jill Kinnear received her textile degree from Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art, Dundee. Following a three-year teaching contract in Papua New Guinea at the National Art School, she emigrated to Australia where she received both a Masters of Visual Art and PhD from the University of Southern Queensland.Sketch Off!
Draw the Crowd!
Sketch Off! | Draw the Crowd!
Deb Mostert and David Bongiorno discuss the importance of capturing the human body in their individual practices, as they sketch and draw from the theatre stage.
Deb Mostert‘s art practice is over 30 years young and involves drawing, painting, small sculpture, and public art. Interested in objects and collections of social and natural history, her artworks use gentle, offbeat narratives and a crisp aesthetic pointing to beauty, truth, and grace. Her works have been shortlisted into many national art prizes and are in state and private collections.
David Bongiorno is an award-winning figurative artist. He has participated in national art prizes including shortlisting in Naked and Nude Art Prize, 2015, “Emerging Wearable Artist Winner” Australian Wearable Art Festival 2022, “Highly Commended” Waterbrook Drawing Prize 2023 and shortlisting in Lethbridge 20,000 2024.Paint Off!
Be Unapologetically You
Paint Off! | Be Unapologetically You
Daniel Butterworth is a figurative artist, who uses images of himself in much of his work to express social, political, and personal views. Having started his working life as a sign-writer, Butterworth later completed a Bachelor of Fine Arts at Latrobe University and has been a practising artist for more than 20 years.
David Hinchliffe has exhibited widely around the world including solo shows in New York, London and Tokyo, and is represented by 13 galleries from London to Singapore. He was taught by Artist John Rigby and William Robinson at the University of Southern Queensland (formerly DDIAE) in the early 70s.Artists’ Market
Thursday 16 January, 4.30pm – 6pm
Refectory, UniSQ Toowoomba – schedule to come.
Ceramics, Jewellery, Printmaking, Millinery, Watercolour Drawing…
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Summer Sounds
Live Music & Cash Bar
Pepper Jane
International touring and recording artist Pepper Jane is described as enchanting, lovable and hilarious. with a salty wit and charming stage presence. Having performed at the famous Ruby Session, Dublin, Pepper has also opened shows for music legends including Tex Perkins, Russell Morris, Renée Geyer, Deni Hines, Darren Hanlon, and Neil Murray.
With a voice compared to Eva Cassidy, and a musical style described as a blend of Thirsty Merc with Joni Mitchell, Pepper Jane’s performances exude tenderness and honesty.
Free Entry, Tuesday, 14 January, 4 – 6pm
A Block Courtyard, UniSQ Toowommba
Mathew Joseph
Originally from India, Mathew now lives in Toowoomba where he writes and produces finger-style guitar driven instrumental music, that blends a range of influences from the East and West. In keeping with his vision for world harmony and peace he blends grooves, rhythms and patterns from many different cultures and traditions that highlight humanity’s oneness in diversity.
Free Entry, Wendnesday, 15 January, 4 – 6pm
A Block Courtyard, UniSQ Toowommba
McGregor Summer 2025 Visual Arts Workshops
13 – 17 January 2025
Registrations are closed
Please email the team at mcgregorschools@unisq.edu.au and we will try to assist you.
McGregor Summer 2025 | Terms & Conditions
HOW TO BOOK: Places book fast! Bookings are only available online at schoolcreativearts.unisq.edu.au/mcgregor/. Accepted payment methods are Visa card or Mastercard. If you experience difficulties with online booking, email mcgregorschools@unisq.edu.au and leave your name, desired workshop and contact number and we will return your enquiry as soon as possible. Please be aware that we cannot guarantee you a place should your chosen class book out before we get to your email.
PAYMENT: Full payment with Visa card or Mastercard is required to secure your booking.
REGISTRATION CANCELLATION: Cancellations received before 16 October 2024 will receive a full refund. Request your refund via email at mcgregorschools@unisq.edu.au. Cancellations received on, or after, 16 October 2024 will not be refunded. Tickets are transferrable. You must advise McGregor Art Workshops, prior to the workshops starting, of any transfer, and details of the new participant via email at mcgregorschools@unisq.edu.au. McGregor Art Workshops may waive or reduce the cancellation penalty if you cancel your registration due to a serious medical condition or bereavement. Please note that you will need to provide a medical certificate at the time of cancellation and refund request. Refund requests based on serious medical condition or bereavement received after 16 October 2024 will only apply to the Registration fee. The McGregor Workshop Delivery Fee is not refundable under any circumstance. Refund requests, with accompanying medical certificate, must be provided by you to McGregor Art Workshops at mcgregorschools@unisq.edu.au by 24 January 2025 for consideration of refund. Should you fall ill during the event, and you provide a medical certificate for the time you did not attend, a pro-rata refund for the Registration fee may be considered. The McGregor Workshop Delivery Fee is not refundable under any circumstance. Medical certificates in the latter instance must be provided by you to McGregor Art Workshops at mcgregorschools@unisq.edu.au by 24 January 2025 for consideration of refund.
WAITLIST: If the workshop you wish to book is full, please still register on the waitlist as sometimes there can be cancellations leading up to the event. In addition to joining the waitlist in your preferred workshop, we recommend booking an alternative workshop to ensure you are not disappointed. We will contact you as positions become available.
JUNIOR REGISTRATION: 15-18 years as of 13 January 2025. Please note that not all workshops are suitable for all juniors. If you have a query, please visit the McGregor Art Workshops website or email our team here. .
MATERIALS: The registration fee for the workshops is comprised of the Registration fee and, where applicable, a McGregor Workshop Delivery Fee. This non-negotiable fee covers additional materials, tools, & life models (where relevant) specific to the workshops. These will be supplied at the time of the workshops. Additional materials you need to bring (BYO) are included in the online ‘Materials & Tools List, and Workshop Schedule’. Detailed ‘Materials & Tools List, and Workshop Schedule’ for each workshop are listed at on the McGregor Art Workshops web page for your chosen workshop. The BYO material cost noted is indicative only. You may already have some, or all, of the required materials or tools in your collection. The level of investment of materials and tools is often your choice, and we encourage you to consult with your tutor prior to your workshop. Please note, prices of materials will vary depending on place of purchase.
LIFE MODELS: Please note that selected workshops will have a life model present. This is noted in the workshop description. The life model may be clothed or nude.
ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT: All electrical equipment (excluding camera, laptop, and phone chargers) being brought onto the UniSQ Campus for class use must be tagged and tested by a qualified electrician prior to attending UniSQ.
VENUE: UniSQ, West Street, Toowoomba Q 4350. Approx. 8km from Toowoomba CBD and approx. 30min drive from the Toowoomba Wellcamp Airport. Please note the campus spreads over a vast area. We are a wheelchair friendly campus. Participants must be of good physical health and able to independently move around the campus. Many of the workshops require an element of physical fitness or require standing for extended periods of time. Please email us to discuss if you have any concerns.
CATERING AND DIETARIES: Complimentary tea and coffee are provided (please BYO a cup/mug as McGregor Workshops will not provide disposable cups). Meals/food are not included. You can purchase food and beverages on campus, or BYO and store in the fridge in your allocated tearoom. Please note that dinner service will not be available from the UniSQ Refectory as of 1 January 2025. Take-away dinner meals can be ordered from the Refectory, but you will need to pre-order and collect these before 4.30pm daily. For further information, and to place dinner orders, please send an email to: catering@unisq.edu.au.
ACCOMMODATION: Accommodation is not included as part of McGregor Art Workshops registration, however, here are some options for you:
UniSQ Residential Colleges: Limited accommodation may be available at the UniSQ Residential Colleges. You can contact the Residential Colleges team on 07 4631 2650.
Dinner service will not be available from the UniSQ Refectory as of 1 January 2025. Take-away dinner meals can be ordered from the Refectory, but you will need to pre-order and collect these before 4.30pm daily. For further information, and to place dinner orders, please send an email to: catering@unisq.edu.au.
Visit Tourism Darling Downs at www.visitdarlingdowns.com.au/toowoomba-2/
Visit AirBnB at www.airbnb.com.au/
(Disclaimer: UniSQ and McGregor Art Workshops has no affiliations with accommodation providers, Tourism Darling Downs, and/or AirBnB).
KEEPING UP TO DATE: All the information you need is on the McGregor Art Workshops’ web page. As we get closer to the event, we will email you a newsletter, but things can change and sometimes circumstances are out of our control. We want to keep you up to date as any changes come to hand, so please ‘Like’ our page on Facebook and follow on Instagram to stay informed. Please also ensure you add mcgregorschools@unisq.edu.au to your email’s safe sender list.
PARTICIPANT CONDUCT: The University of Southern Queensland supports the principles of procedural fairness and values social justice, equal opportunity, and the provision of a safe and supportive working environment. As such, all McGregor Workshops participants and tutors are expected to treat others fairly, honestly, and responsively, with proper regard for their rights and obligations. By enrolling in a workshop, a participant agrees to follow the tutor’s instruction and not deviate from the program. If a participant fails to follow the tutor’s guidelines, they may be asked to leave the workshop at the tutor’s discretion. Please note, the studios are a zero alcohol and illicit drug zone. If a participant shows signs of intoxication or they have consumed alcohol, they will be asked to leave due to UniSQ policy. If either of the above occur, no refund of Registration or McGregor Workshop Delivery fee will be made.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT ACKNOWLEDGEMENT: A Statement of Attendance is provided to participants who complete the McGregor Arts School in its entirety. This includes the workshop hours and is signed by an authorised person.
ACCREDITATION FOR SCHOOL OF CREATIVE ARTS BACHELOR DEGREES: Students enrolled in UniSQ’s School of Creative Arts program may be eligible to work with the School of Creative Arts School Student Support Staff to understand how many McGregor workshops are required to receive an exemption for an elective. This is based on the duration (number of hours) of the McGregor workshop. Please contact creativearts@unisq.edu.au. There is a five-year cut off limit to claim exemption and you must present your certificate.
PANDEMIC: Experience has shown us that McGregor Art Workshops may be impacted by global or national events at short notice. Please be aware that your attendance and/or travel plans can be disrupted by events outside of our control, and we may have to cancel classes as a result. Information may change as directives are received from our government agencies. If McGregor Art Workshops are cancelled, you will receive a full refund of workshop Registration, and McGregor Workshop Delivery Fee. McGregor Art Workshops is not responsible for any further refunds such as travel and accommodation.
WORKSHOP CANCELLATIONS: McGregor Art Workshops reserves the right to cancel a workshop if minimum enrolments are not reached, or if any unforeseen circumstances occur. If your workshop is cancelled you will receive a full refund of workshop Registration, and McGregor Workshop Delivery Fee, or the option to transfer to another workshop. McGregor Art Workshops is not responsible for any further refunds such as travel and accommodation.
Accommodation & Meals
McGregor Summer 2025 | Accommodation & Meals
Accommodation is not included in McGregor Art Workshops registrations, however, here are some options for you:
- UniSQ Residential Colleges: Limited accommodation may be available at the UniSQ Residential Colleges. You can contact the Residential Colleges team on 07 4631 2650.
- Dinner service will not be available from the UniSQ Refectory as of 1 January 2025. Take-away dinner meals can be ordered from the Refectory, but you will need to pre-order and collect these before 4.30pm daily. For further information, and to place dinner orders, please send an email to: catering@unisq.edu.au.
- Visit Tourism Darling Downs at www.visitdarlingdowns.com.au/toowoomba-2/
- Visit AirBnB at www.airbnb.com.au/
(Disclaimer: UniSQ and McGregor Art Workshops has no affiliations with accommodation providers, Tourism Darling Downs, and/or AirBnB).
Meals are also not included in McGregor Art Workshops registrations. While many accommodation options will have facilities for you to prepare your own meals, here are some other options:
UniSQ Refectory:
- Breakfast: available from 7am – please advise the UniSQ Refectory team, in advance, of any dietary requirements you may have.
- Lunch/snacks: until 4.30pm – please advise the UniSQ Refectory team, in advance, of any dietary requirements you may have.
- Dinner: Dinner service will not be available from the UniSQ Refectory as of 1 January 2025. Take-away dinner meals can be ordered from the Refectory, but you will need to pre-order and collect these before 4.30pm daily. For further information, and to place dinner orders, please send an email to: catering@unisq.edu.au.
Alternatives:
- Durbar Cafe and Restaurant, UniPlaza, 6a/472 West St, Kearney Spring QLD 4350.
- Conveniently located near the corner of West St and Baker St, near the UniSQ Toowoomba campus: https://durbarcafetoowoomba.com.au/
- Choose to eat-in, or take-away, from any one of Toowoomba’s excellent venues. You can see some of these listed here: https://www.agfg.com.au/restaurants/south-east-country/toowoomba/takeaway-category
- Uber Eats will deliver to the Residential Colleges – please order via the Uber Eats app.
(Disclaimer: UniSQ and McGregor Art Workshops has no affiliations with the above hospitality providers).
Material Lists
Rob Rek
Painting Hyper-realistic Animals with Acrylics
Acrylics and Mixed Media
Rob Rek | Painting Hyper-realistic Animals with Acrylics | Acrylics and Mixed Media
Suitable for students aged 18+ only
Registration
+ $1080 (Standard Registration plus materials) or $540 (Junior Pathway Program* plus materials – restricted to 18 years)
Materials
+ $22 McGregor Workshop Delivery Fee: This is a non-negotiable fee that covers additional materials & tools specific to this workshop. These will be supplied by McGregor at time of workshop. Payable at time of workshop registration.
+ $290 BYO Material & Tools cost (approximately): Please refer to the online ‘Rob Rek – Materials & Tools List, and Workshop Schedule – McGregor Summer 2025’.
Workshop Outline
Have you looked at Hyperrealist paintings and wondered, “How on earth did they do that?” This workshop is your opportunity to find out, learning from award winning artist Rob Rek – known for his energetic, entertaining style and willingness to share his wealth of knowledge. Working in acrylic paint, you will discover game changing practices from end to end, using a blend of modern technology and classical techniques to achieve showstopping results in your own paintings. With a special focus on animals, you will learn how Rek maps out preliminary sketching for precise end results, layering and glazing skills to create depth and softness in your work, colour skills, how to use different acrylic mediums, tools, and a swag of tips to help you in your artistic journey.
Bio
Rob Rek is a multi-award-winning professional artist and tutor, working from his studio in Brisbane since 2006. His sought-after artworks are driven by the pursuit of perfection. Rek’s paintings are rooted in decadence and the beauty that surrounds us; he is best known for his painstakingly exact ultra-realistic works with their impossibly fine details. Often taking countless hours to complete, the process of exacting the results Rek produces today are skills which have taken years of mentoring and focused study to refine. Learn more about Rob Rek at rekartist.com, Instagram, and Facebook.
Kathryn Wardill
Hot Glass Objects
Glass
Kathryn Wardill | Hot Glass Objects | Glass
Suitable for students aged 18+ only
Registration
+ $1080 (Standard Registration plus materials) or $540 (Junior Pathway Program* plus materials – restricted to 18 years)
Materials
+ $20 McGregor Workshop Delivery Fee: This is a non-negotiable fee that covers additional materials & tools specific to this workshop. These will be supplied by McGregor at time of workshop. Payable at time of workshop registration.
+ $400 BYO Material & Tools cost (approximately): This is in addition to the McGregor Workshop Fee. Please refer to the online ‘Kathryn Wardill – Materials & Tools List, and Workshop Schedule – McGregor Summer 2025’.
Workshop Outline
Create hot glass objects, learn how to create small one-off glass objects, formed over a torch. Starting from the basics of hot glass forming, the tutor thoroughly explains all aspects of the processes for using different types of glass for blowing, shaping, and forming techniques, the use of metals, cold working, finishing, and understanding safety and equipment. The five days are structured with a balance between demonstrations and students creating hot glass objects. No experience is necessary, you will need good eyesight and the steady use of both hands. The scale of the objects will be approx. 5 x 5 x 5 cm or smaller. Upon completion, students will have the flame work glass skills to continue to create hot glass objects.
Bio
Kathryn Wardill is a contemporary glass artist and jeweller who received her Master of Arts, in Fine Art by research from RMIT University. Wardill has actively participated in group and solo exhibitions internationally for over 30 years. Wardill is dedicated to researching jewellery objects combining glass and metal, which has resulted in teaching over 180 workshops, solo exhibitions, being an artist in residency in the USA, and being represented by Studio Ingot Melbourne. Please see www.wardill.com for more information.
David Bongiorno
Anatomical Figure Drawing
Drawing
David Bongiorno | Anatomical Figure Drawing | Drawing
Introductory/Intermediate Level
Suitable for students aged 15+
There is a nude life model in this workshop
Registration
+ $1080 (Standard Registration plus materials) or $540 (Junior Pathway Program* plus materials)
Materials
+ $282.50 McGregor Workshop Delivery Fee: this is a non-negotiable fee that covers additional materials & tools specific to this workshop. These will be supplied by McGregor at time of workshop. Payable at time of workshop registration.
+ BYO Material & Tools: please refer to the online ‘David Bongiorno – Materials & Tools List, and Workshop Schedule – Summer 2025’.
Workshop Outline
Adventure into the world of drawing with a focus on the figure. This workshop will supercharge your technical drawing skills using graphite pencils and charcoal to accelerate your technique and anatomical understanding of the most difficult parts of figure drawing, including the head, hands, and feet, foreshortening and more. Broaden your knowledge of technique with a deep dive into shading, blending, accent lines and the weight of a mark, the nature of light, tonal patterns, and shapes to describe form.
Bio
David Bongiorno is an award-winning figurative artist. He has participated in solo and group exhibitions in venues including Brunswick Gallery, The Cooroy Arts Centre, Manning, Maryborough and Caloundra Galleries, and has undertaken commissions, with works in private and public collections. Bongiorno has participated in national art prizes including shortlisting in Naked and Nude Art Prize, 2015, “Emerging Wearable Artist Winner” Australian Wearable Art Festival 2022, “Highly Commended” Waterbrook Drawing Prize 2023 and shortlisting in Lethbridge 20,000 2024. He has arts curating, teaching and mentoring experience. He teaches a series of drawing and composition workshops with a view to developing the confidence of contemporary artists. Learn more at www.davidbongiornoart.com/.
Catherine Large
Exploring Colour and Texture in Champlevé Enamelling Techniques
Vitreous Enamelling
Catherine Large | Exploring Colour and Texture in Champlevé Enamelling Techniques | Vitreous Enamelling
Image Credit – Michelle Bowden Visuall Photography
Suitable for students aged 18+ only
Registration
+ $1080 (Standard Registration plus materials) or $540 (Junior Pathway Program* plus materials – restricted to 18 years)
Materials
+ $100 McGregor Workshop Delivery Fee: This is a non-negotiable fee that covers additional materials & tools specific to this workshop. These will be supplied by McGregor at time of workshop. Payable at time of workshop registration.
+ $50 – $150 BYO Material & Tools cost (approximately): Please refer to the online ‘Catherine Large – Materials & Tools List, and Workshop Schedule – McGregor Summer 2025’.
Workshop Outline
Come to this course ready to experiment! Students will be introduced to some of the fundamentals of the vitreous enamelling process using vitreous enamels on copper and silver sheet. Emphasis will be on kiln fired enamel and students will experiment and develop mark making skills and simple Basse Taille-like techniques (creating low relief patterns using punches and roller printing) through the production of a series of samples. Cloisonné enamel techniques will also be demonstrated. Simple setting methods suitable for enamel will be discussed, as well as other techniques used to incorporate enamel as a highlight into jewellery works. As the course emphasis is on exploration, you may end up with lots of test pieces, rather than a finished item.
Bio
Catherine Large is a contemporary jeweller and metalsmith based in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. She has a Masters of Visual Art and has taught in Jewellery and Small Objects QCA, Griffith University and is currently a tutor at the Brisbane Institute of Art. Large draws on her experiences of travel and the nature of ‘stuff’ to inform her work in jewellery, objects and flatware. Enamel and re-use of materials feature in her work. Large has been the recipient of a number of grants and she regularly exhibits her work in exhibitions both nationally and internationally. Her work is held in both public and private collections. Learn more at www.catherinelarge.com and Instagram.
Jill Kinnear
Printing textiles; Effective and Fun Techniques!
Textile Printing
Jill Kinnear | Printing Textiles; Effective and Fun Techniques! | Textile Printing
All levels
Suitable for students aged 15+
Registration
+ $1080 (Standard Registration plus materials) or $540 (Junior Pathway Program* plus materials)
Materials
+ $286 BYO Material & Tools cost: This is in addition to the McGregor Workshop Fee. Please refer to the online ‘Workshop Schedule, and Materials & Tools List’.
+ $250 BYO Material & Tools cost (approximately): Allows for 2 x screens and squeegee. Please note you may already have some of the materials listed. Please refer to the online ‘Jill Kinnear – Materials & Tools List, and Workshop Schedule – McGregor Summer 2025’.
Workshop Outline
This short course introduces participants to the potential of simple, effective and fun textile printing techniques onto fabric that can be easily reproduced at home. Prints for T-shirts, tea towels, cushions, bags and placement prints onto garments can all be produced. Techniques include screen printing, monoprinting, resist processes, and photographic screens showing how different types of texture and effects can be achieved. The course also discusses how students can begin printing longer lengths of fabric for fashion and interiors through simple registration processes.
Bio
Born in Scotland, Jill Kinnear received her textile degree from Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art, Dundee. Following a three-year teaching contract in Papua New Guinea at the National Art School, she emigrated to Australia where she received both a Masters of Visual Art and PhD from the University of Southern Queensland. Kinnear’s work has been recognized through major awards and grants, and is held in international collections including the National Museum of Scotland and the State Library of Queensland. She was a Professor of Fibers at the Savannah College of Art and Design, USA, from 2009 to 2023. Read more at www.jillkinnear.com.
Deb Mostert
Drawing Creatures – a Natural History
Watercolour and Ink
Deb Mostert | Everyday Sketchbooks | Pen and Watercolour
There is a clothed model in this workshop
Registration
+ $1080 (Standard Registration plus materials) or $540 (Junior Pathway Program* plus materials)
Materials
+ $100 BYO Material & Tools cost (approximately): Please refer to the online ‘Deb Mostert – Materials & Tools List, and Workshop Schedule – McGregor Summer 2025’.
Workshop Outline
An exploration into the creatures of the natural world, and how we can make observations and documentation in the context of our sketchbooks. We will walk in the footsteps of explorers, scientists and biologists, and will learn some comparative anatomy, how to look for gestural clues and make note of perspective and form. Many fun drawing exercises later, you will go home with a sketchbook filled with ways to see and appreciate the critters around us. Our models will be animals, birds and insects and we will draw from life using taxidermy mounts, field trips, collections of real specimens as well as from photo reference and this will help us practice building solid drawing foundations.
Bio
Deb’s art practice is over 30 years young and involves drawing, painting, small sculpture, and public art. Interested in objects and collections of social and natural history, her artworks use gentle, offbeat narratives and a crisp aesthetic pointing to beauty, truth, and grace. Mostert works from a home studio on the Ipswich/Brisbane border. She holds a BA Fine Art and has had over 20 solo shows and been involved in more than 70 group shows in both regional and commercial galleries. Her works have been shortlisted into many national art prizes and are in state and private collections. Mostert has over 15 years teaching experience and artist in residencies. Learn more at https://debmostertartist.com.au/ and Instagram.
Lauren Jones
Alla Prima Still Life
Oil Painting
Lauren Jones | Alla Prima Still Life | Oil Painting
All levels
Suitable for students aged 15+
Registration
+ $1080 (Standard Registration plus materials) or $540 (Junior Pathway Program* plus materials)
Materials
+ $350 – $400 BYO Material & Tools cost (approximately): Please refer to the online ‘Lauren Jones – Materials & Tools List, and Workshop Schedule – McGregor Summer 2025’.
Workshop Outline
This painting workshop will explore painting with oils in the ‘no fuss’ and quick technique of Alla Prima. Participants will be guided in a relaxed environment to explore immediate mark making to capture form and tone and enjoy the instant gratification of finished works created in a single sitting. Over the week the workshop will cover an introduction to oil painting and explore the fun and expressionistic nature of the Alla prima technique. Be prepared to get messy and loosen up with some gestural painting exercises and explore the genre of still life through new objects and arrangements each day. Discover new and fresh ways of seeing compositions and still life scenes within a relaxed environment. By the end of the workshop participants will have created many finished artworks to take home.
Bio
Lauren Jones is a visual artist based on the Sunshine Coast. Working primarily in oils, her feminine portraits and still life scenes speak of moments captured in time. Jones’ works, executed with bold and immediate brushstrokes, are evocative and impressionistic. Her art exquisitely showcases the materiality of paint and celebrates the process of painting. Born in 1989 in Queensland, Jones earned a Bachelor of Arts (Creative Literature) from the Sunshine Coast University in 2009, and in 2012 a Bachelor of Fine Art (Painting) from Monash University. Jones is represented by Michael Reid Northern Beaches – Sydney, NSW, Studio Gallery Group – Melbourne, Vic, and CLO Studios – Noosa, Qld. Currently Jones works from her home studio in the Noosa Hinterland, Queensland. Read more at https://laurenjones.gallery.
Annette Raff
Watercolour Fusion: Watercolour & Mixed Media
Watercolour
Annette Raff | Watercolour Fusion: Watercolour & Mixed Media | Watercolour
Suitable for students aged 15+
Registration
+ $1080 (Standard Registration plus materials) or $540 (Junior Pathway Program* plus materials)
Materials
+ $250 – $300 BYO Material & Tools cost (approximately): Please refer to the online ‘Annette Raff – Materials & Tools List, and Workshop Schedule – McGregor Summer 2025’.
Workshop Outline
This workshop is all about the fun and freedom of watercolour painting. Annette believes that fear gets in the way of learning, so with her help and insightful demonstrations, you’ll go on a journey to build confidence and embrace the imperfections in your art. Through a bunch of creative exercises, you’ll find new ways to use watercolour and mix it with other media including tissue collage, inks, pen and pencil to create exciting results. You’ll also get some drawing tips and access to Annette’s photos. Join us to explore your creativity and discover the endless possibilities in your artwork!
Bio
Annette Raff has an extensive knowledge of art and design fundamentals and is skilled in drawing and watercolour painting. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Art and Advanced Certificate in Art and Design. Raff is a sought-after teacher, having taught at TAFE, Artist Network University, Royal Qld Art Society, Bienarté Art School, and regional art workshops. She enjoys exploring new ways with drawing, water mediums, printing, digital art and mixed media. With over 27 years of teaching experience, Raff has refined her approach to prioritize fostering a relaxed, supportive environment that boosts student confidence. Read more at watercolourlessonsonline.com, Facebook, and Instagram.
Rare Squid Creative
Music Video Production
Film
Rare Squid Creative | Music Video Production | Film
Image Credit – Theresa Hall
All levels
Suitable for students aged 15+
Registration
+ $1080 (Standard Registration plus materials) or $270 (Junior Pathway Program* plus materials)
Materials
+ $80 BYO Material & Tools cost (approximately): Please refer to the online ‘Rare Squid Creative – Materials & Tools List, and Workshop Schedule – McGregor Summer 2025’.
Book Now
Workshop Outline
Join our hands-on workshop to explore the world of music video production. Learn key skills and techniques used in the broader film industry by taking on practical roles in creating professional music videos. With guidance from Rare Squid Creative, you’ll collaborate with an established band or musical artists to bring their vision to life, earning a spot in the credits. From camera operation to directing and editing, you’ll cover the basics of each step in the process. Gain valuable experience through real client interactions, tackle challenges, and dive into the dynamic music video production industry. Unleash your creativity, get behind the camera, and leave with the practical skills to start your own filmmaking journey.
This project was made possible by the Australian Government’s Regional Arts Fund, provided through Regional Arts Australia, administered in Queensland by Flying Arts Alliance.
Bio
Rare Squid Creative is a creative media partnership formed by Paddy and Josh. Based in Toowoomba, they have worked on a variety of projects, including community initiatives, web-based graphics, media production, and artistic collaborations. They have more recently specialised in music videos and have produced over 30 videos for various artists over the past four years. Their work has been featured on prominent platforms like ABC, Rage, CMT, and Channel 7. See more at www.raresquid.au.
Bill Powell
Wheel Throwing for Scale
Ceramics
Bill Powell | Wheel Throwing for Scale | Ceramics
Suitable for students aged 18+ only
Registration
+ $1080 (Standard Registration plus materials) or $540 (Junior Pathway Program* plus materials – restricted to 18 years)
Materials
+ $217 McGregor Workshop Delivery Fee: This is a non-negotiable fee that covers additional materials & tools specific to this workshop. These will be supplied by McGregor at time of workshop. Payable at time of workshop registration.
+ $200 BYO Material & Tools cost (approximately): Please refer to the online ‘Bill Powell – Materials & Tools List, and Workshop Schedule – McGregor Summer 2025’.
Workshop Outline
In this five-day wheel throwing workshop, Bill will be covering all the techniques for large and controlled throwing that he has developed over a forty-five-year production ceramic career. We will explore large form throwing along with joining multiple pieces and exaggerated forms. Bill’s aim is to deliver to you his suite of techniques to grow your practise by improving your overall wheel skills. Bill will also be demonstrating methods of texturing and stretching the clay, if time allows. Our focus over the five days is better throwing with greater understanding of the process. Student expectations should remain squarely focussed on improving skills more than producing a body of work. This workshop is not for beginners. If you can handle two kilos of clay and up, then this week of throwing will accelerate your abilities for greater success and bigger forms. Pots created are available to students to keep but firing is not possible.
Bio
Bill Powell is a Fine Arts graduate from UniSQ. Upon completing his studies in 1979, Powell discovered the technically difficult and alluring specialist glaze method that is Crystalline Glazes. He has spent over thirty-five years in pursuit of their excellence. Renowned for his mastery of the potter’s wheel, Powell combines purity of form, with the colour and grace of Crystalline Glazes. He has demonstrated at the World Congress of Crystal glazers in La Bisbal De Emporda, Cataluña, Spain, and has delivered the annual crystal glaze workshop at the Dunedin Fine Art Centre in Tampa, Florida. Powell is currently Artist in Residence in Vallauris, France; also made possible by an Arts Queensland Career Development Grant. Learn more about Bill Powell’s art practice on Facebook and Instagram.
David Hinchliffe
The Joy of Painting Fast and Loose
Acrylic Painting
David Hinchliffe | The Joy of Painting Fast and Loose | Acrylic Painting
All levels
Suitable for students aged 18+ only
There is a clothed and nude life model in this workshop
Registration
+ $1080 (Standard Registration plus materials) or $540 (Junior Pathway Program* plus materials – restricted to 18 years)
Materials
+ $20 McGregor Workshop Delivery Fee: This is a non-negotiable fee that covers additional materials & tools specific to this workshop. These will be supplied by McGregor at time of workshop. Payable at time of workshop registration.
+ $400 BYO Material & Tools cost (approximately): Please refer to the online ‘David Hinchliffe – Materials & Tools List, and Workshop Schedule – McGregor Summer 2025’.
Workshop Outline
Whether you have never painted before, or have been painting all your life, participants will get something very special from the unique painting approach which David has developed over 50 years of painting. He will explain his technique of painting from dark to light, using negative space. He will also encourage participants to find their own special style and, based on his extensive commercial success in Australia and overseas, he will help you to achieve artistic success. Many of David’s participants have gone on to have successful careers as practising and exhibiting artists. His recent workshops in Provence, following in the footsteps of Vincent Van Gogh have seen a change in both his painting and teaching styles.
Bio
David Hinchliffe has exhibited widely around the world including solo shows in New York, London and Tokyo, and is represented by 13 galleries from London to Singapore. He was taught by Artist John Rigby and William Robinson at the University of Southern Queensland (formerly DDIAE) in the early 70s. He has been painting and selling his paintings from the age of 12. Hinchliffe’s style is generally considered to be ‘Contemporary Impressionism’, with his favourite artist being Van Gogh. Read more at https://www.davidhinchliffe.com.au/.
Daniel Butterworth
Acrylic on Cardboard
Acrylic Painting
Daniel Butterworth | Acrylic on Cardboard | Acrylic Painting
There is a nude life model in this workshop
Registration
+ $1080 (Standard Registration plus materials ) or $540 (Junior Pathway Program* plus materials) or $540 (Junior Pathway Program* plus materials – restricted to 18 years)
Materials
+ $75 McGregor Workshop Delivery Fee: This covers additional materials, tools, & models (where relevant) specific to this workshop. These will be supplied by McGregor at time of workshop. Payable at time of workshop registration.
+ $100 BYO Material & Tools cost (approximately): Please refer to the online ‘Daniel Butterworth – Materials & Tools List, and Workshop Schedule – McGregor Summer 2025’.
Workshop Outline
This painting workshop will explore paint application, composition, scale, mark making, and colour through looking at the portrait, landscape, still life, figure, and life drawing. Students will be encouraged to explore, find what excites them when creating, to then be able to develop one genre or explore more with Daniel’s guidance.
Bio
Daniel Butterworth is a figurative artist, who uses images of himself in much of his work to express social, political, and personal views. Having started his working life as a sign-writer, Butterworth later completed a Bachelor of Fine Arts at Latrobe University and has been a practising artist for more than 20 years. With numerous solo and group exhibitions to his name, along with the selection as a finalist in many high-profile portrait prizes, including the Doug Moran Portraiture Prize and the Archibald, He is now in demand as a guest artist and teacher in Australia. Butterworth works from his studio in Kyneton, Victoria. Read more at https://www.danielbutterworth.com/.
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