Brisbane families can look forward to a spectacular weekend of creativity at the free Drawing Festival this July 2026. Held at the Queensland Art Gallery, this family-friendly event features hands-on art workshops, live music, and accessible drawing kits, making it the perfect winter activity for Brisbane kids and parents of all skill levels.
Drawing Festival at Queensland Art Gallery
An unmissable weekend of creativity and fun for everyone, featuring over 50+ free events! The Drawing Festival returns in 2026, expanded to two days due to popular demand at the Queensland Art Gallery. Spark or rekindle your love of drawing through experiences designed for everyone, from beginners to drawing enthusiasts.
Join 30-minute drawing workshops in the Skills Lab, where Dr Bill Platz and First Nations illustrator Tori-Jay Mordey lead sessions on figure drawing, portraiture and still life, run six times daily and limited to 100 participants per session. Take part in drop-in life drawing with Studio Maverik, sketching costumed models in the Watermall, or grab free materials and draw inspiration from artworks throughout the galleries and the open-air Sculpture Courtyard. Watch emerging artists from the Queensland College of Art and QUT at work, enjoy live piano performances in the Watermall from Queensland Conservatorium musicians, and submit your own artwork to be displayed in The People’s Gallery.
Accessibility offerings include Auslan-interpreted workshop sessions, a tactile Handle with Care experience, the Sensing Still Life raised-line drawing workshop for visitors who are blind or have low vision (bookings required), and free accessible drawing kits available from the Melbourne Street Information Desk.
No prior drawing experience required / Designed for all ages and skill levels / All materials are free, including paper, drawing boards and graphite pencils.
The event runs alongside the GOMA Winter Design Market, featuring 80+ independent designers and makers.
Plan your visit
When: Saturday 25th & Sunday 26th July 2026, 10am – 5pm
Where: Queensland Art Gallery, South Brisbane 4101
Cost: Free
More information here
