An Archibald Prize winner is putting his mark on James Street
Melbourne-based artist Richard Lewer is coming to James Street. As part of the next edition of Art on James, selected works from the 2026 Archibald Prize winner will form an art trail along the stylish shopping and dining precinct for two weeks, with the artist himself joining locals and art enthusiasts for an engaging dinner and conversation. Here’s what you need to know …
This year has been a big one for Richard Lewer. The visual artist took out top honours at the 2026 edition of the Archibald Prize for his portrait of Pitjantjatjara Elder and senior artist Iluwanti Ken.
Next, the artist is bringing his work to James Street, showcasing a selection of commissioned pieces as part of the latest iteration of Art on James, presented in partnership with Jan Murphy Gallery. The initiative offers Brisbane aesthetes the chance to enjoy art outside a traditional gallery setting. From Thursday October 29 to Thursday November 12, pieces from Richard Lewer’s latest body of work will be on display at participating James Street retailers.
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Richard Lewer’s practice, which encompasses painting and drawing, is inspired by observations, memories, landscapes, jokes and moments of quiet beauty. His new series – crafted in response to the James Street community – invites audiences to see and consider the strip from the artist’s perspective, offering a different yet deeply human vantage point of one of Brisbane’s most famous neighbourhoods.
On Thursday October 29, Richard will join Dr Lisa Slade, Hugh Ramsay Chair of Australian Art History at the University of Melbourne, for an engaging conversation about his practice and latest solo exhibition, Don’t forget to breathe (opening at Jan Murphy Gallery on Wednesday October 28). The event will take place at Harveys Bar & Bistro, with tickets including a bespoke three-course menu and a private, after-hours preview at Jan Murphy Gallery. Get your tickets here.
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