The Guide: March 2026
March brings a wave of new opportunities, exhibitions and events for creatives across the region.
Recently announced, Horizon Festival has revealed its 2026 program of art experiences from the coast to the hinterland. With large-scale installations, performances, visual art and music events, the festival continues to showcase the arts on the Sunshine Coast.
Across the region, galleries are also presenting a range of new exhibitions and programs this month. From Rocket Science by Michael Brennan at ca Gallery to Art Chats hosted by UniSC Art Gallery.
Two major funding opportunities are also currently open. Applications for Sunshine Coast Council’s Regional Arts Development Fund close later this month, while Arts Queensland’s Queensland Arts Showcase Program that supports Queensland artists and organisations to develop and present new work, close mid April.
The Horizon Festival program has launched!
1 - 10 May 2026
From 1 - 10 May 2026, the Sunshine Coast transforms into a canvas for bold ideas and unforgettable experiences as Horizon Festival celebrates its tenth anniversary.
This milestone year celebrates diverse voices, shared experiences, and the power of belonging. Across 35+ events, you’ll experience First Nations-led gatherings, visual and performing arts, live music, community celebrations, family adventures, and immersive moments crafted to spark wonder and deepen connection.
MadeSC - PRODUCER LAB EOI
EOI closes midnight March 22 2026
PRODUCER LAB is a weekend intensive designed to strengthen your producing knowledge, skills and networks. Through a combination of in-person workshops, panels and incursions, the PRODUCER LAB is facilitated by some of Australia’s leading producing companies, including Performing Lines and Red Chair.
One-off grants to support Queensland-based new creative works
Applications close 13 April 2026
The Queensland Arts Project Fund supports Queensland-based artists, groups and organisations to develop and present new creative work across visual arts, performing arts, writing, music and more. The program encourages ambitious projects that reflect Queensland stories, people and places while building opportunities for artists and audiences.
Grants range from $20,000 for individuals and up to $70,000 for projects, with up to $150,000 available for large-scale two-year initiatives with matched funding. Additional access funding of up to $10,000 is available to support participation for artists and audiences with disability.
EOI
QShowcase: Arts Market + Conference 2026 supports Queensland artists, producers and presenters to connect, pitch and promote tour‑ready work at a statewide performing arts market. Network, showcase excerpts and build touring opportunities alongside industry peers.
Applications close 31 March 2026.
FUNDING
RADF Arts Grants support Sunshine Coast artists, organisations and collectives to develop skills, create new work and grow audiences. Funding is available for Arts Projects (up to $15,000) and Artist Development (up to $5,000).
Applications close 30 March 2026.
EOI
Sydney Fringe Festival is New South Wales’ largest independent arts festival, presenting hundreds of performances, exhibitions and events across theatre, music, comedy, dance and more in venues throughout Sydney. It’s an open‑access celebration of creativity and culture for artists and audiences alike.
1 - 30 September 2026.
EXHIBITION
Rocket Science – Michael Brennan is a solo exhibition by artist Michael Brennan at ca Gallery in Coolum Beach, where sculptural works explore notions of experimentation, play and perception through dynamic materials and forms. The show invites visitors to consider the art of making and seeing. Exhibition runs 7 - 28 March 2026.
PERFORMANCE
Red Chair presents this tour of award‑winning Indian‑Australian singer Menaka, which blends traditional Indian vocals with contemporary sounds, creating a rich, cross‑cultural musical experience. Catch performances across South East Queensland in Coolum Beach, Pomona, Cleveland, Maleny and Eudlo.
7 - 29 March 2026.
EXHIBITION
UniSC Gallery’s Art Chats invites you to join relaxed lunchtime talks exploring Marking Time: 30 Years of the UniSC Art Collection. Discover artistic processes, acquisition stories, conservation and connections between works. Sessions are free in the UniSC Art Gallery foyer. Attend one or the full series.
Next session 26 March 2026.
WORKSHOP: Hand-Carved Inkjet Prints with Henri Van Noordenburg
EXHIBITION: Local Contemporary Art Prize
EXHIBITION: Andrew Hillhouse: There is Another Sky
EXHIBITION: Local Student Art Prize
Image credits (from top): Yauar Warai Wandi − Sing, Dance, Gather. Middens & The First Creatives. Horizon Festival 2025. Photo: Nic Morley; Photo by G Docs Co from OK Kenilworth, Horizon 2025; Image via Unsplash; Image courtesy of QTouring; Featured artwork by Ben Tupas. Captured by Alison Mooney; Photo: Paul McMillan. Image courtesy of Sydney Fringe Festival; Image courtesy of ca Gallery; Image courtesy of Red Chair; Image courtesy of SCCA.
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events, and professional development programs for creatives.
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