South Murwillumbah is preparing for a kaleidoscopic invasion as Gerwyn Davies’ latest exhibition, Sunburn, opens its doors at the Tweed Regional Gallery. The acclaimed photographer and costume designer presents a vivid celebration of the Tweed region and its quintessential borderland charm, reimagining the iconic ephemera of Australia’s glittering east coast.

Davies, known for his unique blend of costume and photography, has crafted a series of works that are both a 'love letter to kitschy, coastal Australiana,' and an exploration of identity within these familiar landscapes, as reported by The Guardian Australia. The exhibition, running from July 3rd to November 22nd, 2026, promises a truly immersive and visually spectacular experience.

From Sun-Kissed Shores to Studio Splendour

Sunburn is a collection of new textile and photographic works that delve into the vibrant, often humorous, aspects of Australian beach life. Davies’ signature style marries elaborate, hand-crafted costumes with a keen eye for evocative photographic narratives. Imagine classic beachside motifs – think boogie boards, inflatable toys, and brightly coloured beach towels – elevated to an art form, rendered in Davies’ distinct, often surreal, aesthetic.

The artist meticulously constructs his fantastical costumes, which become central to the photographic images. These are not merely garments but wearable sculptures that blur the lines between fashion, performance, and fine art. The Guardian Australia previously highlighted Davies’ 'colourful, camp costume sculptures,' a testament to his bold and playful approach.

Reimagining Regional Icons

The exhibition is deeply rooted in the iconography of the Tweed region and the broader east coast. Davies takes commonplace objects and scenes – arguably verging on the mundane – and infuses them with a new sense of wonder and theatricality. It’s a deliberate elevation of the 'kitsch,' transforming everyday observations into something extraordinary. This process encourages viewers to look anew at the familiar, finding beauty and depth in what might typically be overlooked.

Davies’ work often plays with themes of camouflage and transformation, with figures frequently blending into their vibrant, constructed environments. This creates a sense of playful ambiguity, inviting the audience to engage more deeply with the visual narrative and the cultural touchstones being referenced.

The Allure of Australiana Aesthetic

For Australian audiences, Davies’ Sunburn taps directly into a shared cultural consciousness. The exhibition evokes memories of summer holidays, coastal road trips, and the distinctive visual language of our nation's seaside towns. It’s a nostalgic journey, filtered through a contemporary and artistic lens, offering both familiarity and fresh perspective.

The 'iridescent' quality often associated with Davies’ art, as noted by The Guardian Australia, ensures that these works are not just visually stimulating but also possess a shimmering, almost dreamlike quality. The textiles and photographs are designed to captivate, reflecting the very essence of a sun-drenched, dazzling Australian summer. This exhibition is more than just a display of images; it’s an experience, a joyous and thoughtful reflection on what it means to live in and connect with Australia’s unique coastal landscape.

A Must-See for Art Enthusiasts and Locals Alike

The Tweed Regional Gallery is renowned for showcasing compelling regional and national art, and Sunburn is poised to be a major drawcard. Davies' ability to infuse the ordinary with extraordinary artistic vision ensures that the exhibition will resonate with a wide audience, from seasoned art critics to families enjoying a day out. Entry fees are set to be affordable, approximately around $15 per adult, allowing broad access to this significant cultural event. This exhibition is an unmissable opportunity to witness one of Australia’s most imaginative artists celebrate a region close to the hearts of many.