Arts Trail Itinerary
The Bellingen Shire is home to an extraordinary community of talented artists and creatives whose work reflects the region’s rich natural beauty and strong sense of place. From painters, sculptors and photographers to musicians, writers, ceramicists, and textile artists, the area is a thriving hub of artistic expression. Whether you're visiting a local exhibition, browsing handcrafted goods at a weekend market, or catching a live performance, you’ll quickly see that creativity is not just appreciated in the Bellingen Shire - it’s a way of life.
Tree‑O Furniture Gallery in Raleigh is a welcoming gallery and workshop where Bim Morton, and a collective of local artists, showcase stunning handcrafted timber furniture, sculptures, décor, and unique gifts, each piece exclusive to the gallery. With fresh, rotating exhibitions and a relaxed creative energy, Tree-O is truly one of the regions hidden gems.
In the 1990s, Bim relocated to five acres on the Dorrigo Plateau, setting up a modest workshop and immersing himself in the rich local timbers. It was here that his design sensibilities and woodworking skills matured, laying the foundation for what Tree‑O represents today; a deep connection to timber, craft, and the creative community of the Bellingen Shire. Whether you're a lover of fine craftsmanship or simply exploring the creative spirit of the region, Tree‑O invites you to drop in, slow down, and discover something truly special.
The Urunga Art Space
Brighten up your Urunga visit with a stop at The Art Space — a spirited, volunteer-run community gallery right in the town centre that refreshes its exhibitions every two months, making every visit feel new. Explore vibrant local paintings, pottery, sculpture, and the outdoor “Brush Strokes” gallery. You can also find your holiday keepsake or gift amongst the beautifully crafted jewellery, photography, quirky pottery and a range of cards and artworks.
Nexus Gallery, Bellingen
Tucked inside the historic Old Butter Factory, Nexus Gallery is a sanctuary that has become a key part of the area’s cultural fabric. Established by the Bellingen Community Arts Council to support artists, the gallery celebrates local creativity, holding monthly solo and group exhibitions. While you’re visiting the gallery you’ll get to soak up the ambience of the Old Butter Factory, a charming and historically rich iconic landmark that has been lovingly restored to become a thriving hub of creativity, culture, and community. You will find artisan shops, homewares, a gallery, a cafe and a co-working space, set amongst a unique site that seamlessly blends industrial heritage with modern amenities.
Bellingen Potters Collective
Want to try building your own mug, bowl, or bell? This is the place to get tactile, inspired, and maybe take home your own clay-crafted keepsake. The Bellingen Potters Collective is a stunning, bright, community-driven studio gallery showcasing locally made ceramics. And they also offer fun, hands-on workshops in a friendly, relaxed setting. A collaboration of local artists, each piece is made with care and attention ensuring you get a ‘one of kind’ product that reflects the beauty and nature of the Bellingen Shire.
Waterfall Way Visitor Centre, Bellingen
Located along the scenic Waterfall Way and in the heart of Bellingen, the Visitor Centre offers more than maps and travel advice - it’s also home to a curated showcase of local art by talented regional artists. Step inside to discover an inspiring collection, featuring everything from striking paintings and photography to intricate handmade crafts and unique pieces you won’t find anywhere else.
Whether you're just passing through or looking to connect more deeply with the area's culture, the gallery and retail space at the Visitor Centre is a perfect starting point to experience the vibrant artistic spirit of the region.
Edge of Time, Dorrigo
Step into another world at Edge of Time in Dorrigo. This extraordinary exhibition showcases over 20 years of work by local artist Mark Walker - from bespoke, handmade motorcycles and engines to imaginative, moving sculptures crafted from found objects. The scene has been set for the turn of the century: think steampunk...where art, engineering, and creativity collide.
The gallery is also home to Erika's metalsmith studio and the beautiful raku ceramics of locals Elvina Munir and Doug Armstrong, adding even more layers of artistry to explore.
This is truly the unusual and the wonderfully unexpected, in a quaint town set amongst World-Heritage listed Gondwana Rainforests and gentle rolling farmland.
Bellingen Shire Arts Trail
The Bellingen Shire Arts Trail is a self-guided journey through the creative heart of our region, held over one inspiring weekend in November each year. Across the towns and villages of Bellingen, Dorrigo, Urunga and Raleigh, local artists open their studios, galleries, and workshops, inviting you to step inside their creative spaces, see their work up close, and engage in conversations about their process. From painting and ceramics to photography, sculpture and more, the Trail offers a diverse and vibrant showcase of artistic talent.
Outside of the official Trail weekend, many artists are available for studio visits by appointment, giving you the opportunity to explore the arts of Bellingen Shire all year-round.
https://www.bellingenshireartstrail.com/
Looking for some extra drive-by stops? Here’s a few eclectic and interesting stops to add to your artwork adventure:
Bower House Community Reuse Shop, Raleigh
While you’re in Raleigh, stop by The Bower House, a community reuse shop that turns pre-loved materials into inspiration. This creative hub rescues quality items from landfill and gives them new life, offering everything from reclaimed timber and building materials to vintage furniture, homewares, books, and quirky finds you won’t see anywhere else.
More than just a second-hand store, The Bower House celebrates the art of reuse and resourcefulness. Local artists and makers often find treasures here to incorporate into their work, while community workshops and upcycling projects encourage visitors to see beauty and potential in the everyday.
Thora General Store
Heading up the mountain to Dorrigo, be sure to stop at the Thora General Store, a quirky roadside gem with a legendary local mascot. Out the back stands a towering dragon sculpture, crafted by local artist and metalworker John van der Kolk, and a striking symbol of the region’s playful creativity and inventive spirit. Inside, the store offers a mix of local charm and practical treats from the cafe and store, all with a focus on local producers.
Water Cloud, Dorrigo Town Centre
In the heart of Dorrigo, the striking Water Cloud sculpture adds a whimsical touch to the town centre. Created by local artists, this large-scale installation captures the movement and playfulness of waterfalls and clouds, reflecting the region’s lush rainforest environment and creative spirit. It’s a perfect spot to pause, snap a photo, and appreciate how art seamlessly blends with everyday life.
Ready to explore? From mountain to sea, creativity is woven through every town and village. Come and meet the makers and experience a region where art isn’t just made — it’s lived. Check out our places to Eat & Stay and plan your next holiday to the Bellingen Shire.