The Urbanite recently interviewed Freÿa Black, the gallery manager of Wentworth Galleries’ new Brisbane location at Queen’s Wharf Precinct, to discuss her artistic journey and the gallery’s impact on the local art scene. A Melbourne-based artist with a multifaceted background, Freÿa began her career as a dancer and actor before transitioning into performance-based works. She studied at RMIT, specialising in gold and silversmithing and crafting jewellery, which she exhibited at art school. Her creative evolution led her to explore larger-scale objects and eventually filmmaking, culminating in a film installation exhibited in Melbourne after receiving the Travelling Honours Scholarship to Europe and the UK. Freÿa’s diverse experience now informs her role at Wentworth, where she brings a deep passion for art to Brisbane.
Wentworth Galleries, a Sydney institution for over 35 years, opened its first Brisbane venture in August 2024, marking its debut outside New South Wales. Freÿa emphasised the gallery’s commitment to supporting local Brisbane and Queensland-based artists, a mission that strengthens the city’s vibrant arts community. “We have more and more Queensland artists coming into the gallery space, which is great for supporting the community,” she shared. The gallery’s strategic location near the Star Entertainment Group complex has boosted its visibility, attracting diverse visitors, from interstate and overseas tourists to conference attendees, enhancing its role as a cultural hub in Brisbane.
Recent exhibitions at Wentworth Brisbane highlight their dedication to nurturing emerging and established talent. Freÿa spoke excitedly about a recent show featuring emerging artist Reece George, marking his first-ever exhibition. “It was exciting to see that take off and see his confidence grow,” she noted, underscoring the gallery’s role in fostering new voices. An upcoming exhibition by Sydney-based artist Phil Stallard, titled Watermarks, will feature lush depictions of the Dairubbin and Hawkesbury Rivers alongside Queensland’s estuaries, blending local and interstate perspectives. Wentworth tailors its curatorial approach to each artist’s needs, guiding newcomers while supporting established creators in showcasing their collections.
A key focus for Wentworth Galleries is making art accessible to a broad audience, a mission Freÿa is passionate about. The gallery caters to everyone—from seasoned collectors to first-time buyers—with an educational approach that equips visitors with knowledge about art practices and movements. “We like to pass on that knowledge and better equip people for when they’re buying,” Freÿa explained, noting how they provide professional guidance to build confidence in new collectors. This inclusive ethos extends to their community engagement, as Wentworth welcomes visitors to explore and discuss art without any obligation to purchase.
Wentworth Galleries is gearing up to participate in the Affordable Art Fair, a significant event for Brisbane’s art scene, from May 8 to 11, 2025, at the Brisbane Showgrounds in Bowen Hills. Now in its second year in the city, the fair emphasises affordability with a price threshold of $10,000, making art accessible to a wide range of budgets. Freÿa highlighted the event’s appeal, noting it will feature a mix of Brisbane-based, interstate, and international galleries offering diverse works. “It’s an art fair, and there are many different things to see,” she said, encouraging Brisbanites to attend and discover new artists.
Freÿa’s passion for the arts shines through in her invitation to the Brisbane community. “The arts are essential, and the last few years have taught us how important art is to our well-being,” she reflected, urging locals to explore the city’s galleries, from state institutions to commercial and artist-run spaces. Wentworth Galleries offers an open door for those curious about art to learn and engage. “Come and see us here at Wentworth; we’re happy to talk to you,” Freÿa added, emphasising their welcoming approach. As Wentworth Galleries continues to champion local artists and events like the Affordable Art Fair, they’re set to become a vital part of Brisbane’s cultural landscape.
