The current exhibition featuring David Hinchliffe at Newstead House is more than just a display of new art; it’s a perfect alignment of a celebrated artist with Brisbane’s most historically significant domestic dwelling.
The Grand Dame of Brisbane: Newstead House History
Built in 1846 for pastoralist Patrick Leslie, Newstead House holds the distinction of being Brisbane’s oldest surviving European residence. Initially a simple Colonial Georgian cottage, it was transformed into the sprawling, elegant homestead we see today largely under the ownership of Captain John Wickham, a former Royal Navy officer who commanded the HMS Beagle on a portion of Charles Darwin’s famed voyage.
Newstead House quickly became the heart of Brisbane’s social life in the mid-19th century, known for hosting lavish parties and serving as a kind of unofficial Government House. Today, it stands as a cherished living museum, connecting visitors to the ambitions, social life, and evolution of early colonial Brisbane.
The Artist: David Hinchliffe
David Hinchliffe is a highly acclaimed Australian artist whose career spans over five decades. Hinchliffe’s distinctive style of “contemporary impressionism” has garnered global recognition, with galleries in London, New York, Tokyo, and Australia, among others, representing his work.
Hinchliffe had a successful and colourful 30-year career in public service and politics in Brisbane before returning to painting as a full-time professional artist. This deep, personal knowledge of the city’s streets, shadows, and light infuses his work, which primarily focuses on expressive cityscapes, landscapes, and figurative subjects. His ability to capture the fleeting, shimmering moments of urban life has made his work immensely popular with collectors.
This new body of work sees Hinchliffe turn his signature style to the rich history and beautiful architecture of Newstead House and its gardens. It’s a compelling dialogue between the artist’s contemporary vision and the House’s timeless history.
Exhibition Details
Experience the exhibition and explore Newstead House during these times:
| Detail | Information |
| Dates 🗓️ | 17 October – 21 December 2025 |
| Times 🕙 | Fridays: 10 am – 2 pm Sundays: 10 am – 4 pm |
| Adult Ticket 💵 | $12 |
| Concession Ticket 💰 | $9 |
| Children under 16 🥳 | Free (accompanied by a ticketed adult) |
| Book Tickets | newsteadhouse.com.au |
