NorthSite Contemporary Arts (formerly KickArts)

NorthSite Contemporary Arts is a contemporary arts organisation with a long-standing role in Cairns and Far North Queensland. Formerly known as KickArts, it began as a boundary-pushing artist collective in Cairns in the early 1990s and now has more than 30 years of experience presenting exhibitions, programs and events. Its work centres on connecting artists, audiences and supporters through contemporary art and design, with a particular focus on the creative life of Tropical North Queensland.

The organisation presents an annual exhibition program made up of internally curated projects, partnerships, touring exhibitions and work by independent artists and collectives. The website’s programme includes group and solo exhibitions, as well as projects exploring First Nations stories, printmaking and connections to Country. NorthSite also runs artist talks, special events and skills-based programs throughout the year, giving visitors ways to engage with the ideas and people behind the work rather than simply viewing exhibitions.

For visitors in Edge Hill, NorthSite Art Studios is located within the Cairns Cultural Precinct on Greenslopes Street. The professional facility supports training, community workshops and the production of fine-art printmaking, and is used for residencies by print artists from Queensland, the Asia Pacific and Oceania. Access to the studios is by appointment, studio booking or workshop ticket, so it is worth checking the details before planning a visit. The organisation’s public gallery and store are located separately at Bulmba-ja on Abbott Street in Cairns City. The gallery store offers art for sale and is described by NorthSite as a contemporary art space with a small retail component.

NorthSite suits solo visitors who enjoy taking their time with contemporary art, as well as groups interested in exhibitions, talks or workshops. Its programme will particularly appeal to people wanting to learn more about artists and creative practices from Far North Queensland, including the region’s strong printmaking history. Membership is also available through the Gallery Friends program, which provides special access to events, programs and discounts on purchases. With exhibitions, a shop, community activities and studio-based learning across its Cairns locations, NorthSite offers several ways to spend time with the region’s contemporary arts community.