Ken Done exhibition bursts into HOTA this spring.
Ken Done exhibition bursts into HOTA this spring.
When you think Australiana, you might picture koalas, beaches, gum trees and backyard barbies, but on canvas, nothing captures our sun-soaked spirit quite like Ken Done (A.M.). And this September, the national treasure is bringing his world of fearless colour and “no rules” to HOTA.
Beloved for his bold colours, sunny disposition and iconic depictions of reef, harbour and home, Ken Done (A.M.) has been one of Australia’s most recognisable artists for more than four decades. At 85, his passion for breaking rules and painting life with optimism continues to inspire generations.
And Ken’s not done yet! He’s still creating with the energy of someone half his age, and his philosophy hasn’t changed.
“An artist can – and should – create their own rules.”
Ken Done: No Rules exhibition at HOTA is set to brighten up the Gold Coast this spring. We’re talking works from throughout the years of Ken’s exuberant practice featuring his love of Australian culture in hues only Ken could dream up. But here’s a first for a major exhibition at HOTA: an interactive animation of some of Ken’s key artworks will be projected onto the walls of the Gallery, letting visitors experience his work in a whole new dimension.
Ken’s work is stitched into the fabric of Australian identity, and when we say stitched, we really mean it. His art isn’t just on canvas. From the 80s and 90s, his vibrant designs exploded onto bedspreads, shirts and swimmers, including a standout collab with visionary fashion label Romance Was Born in 2022. And yes, some of these pieces will also be on show in this exhibition.
For collectors and fans, there’s even more reason to visit: exclusive Ken Done themed merchandise will be available from the HOTA shop, so you can take a slice of his bold, bright world home with you.
As if seeing Ken’s iconic work up close wasn’t enough, you can also catch the man behind the brush IRL. In Conversation with Ken Done on the 14th September promises an intimate glimpse into his philosophy, inspirations and maybe a cheeky yarn or two from his long career. If his paintings are full of colour, his stories are just as vivid.
Now, here’s where things get really juicy. Whenever HOTA has a major exhibition, the surrounding venues – The Exhibitionist Bar (rooftop cocktails, yes please!) and Palette Restaurant (fine dining with an artistic flair) – go all out with themed treats.
Palette is teaming up with Romance Was Born and Ken himself for a fashion-meets-food extravaganza. Surrounded by animated visions of Ken’s iconic works, indulge in five exquisite courses by Executive Chef Dayan Hartill-Law, perfectly paired and inspired by all things Australian. With Ken as guest of honour, the evening includes a Q&A led by HOTA Senior Curator Julie McLaren with Romance Was Born’s Anna Plunkett and Luke Sales, exploring their dazzling 2022 Done Zone collaboration.
If Palette’s past exhibition menus are anything to go by, it’ll be a feast as bold as a Done’s colour palette.
So mark your calendars, art lovers! Ken Done: No Rules opens 13th September. Whether you’re here for the bold brushstrokes, the interactive animation, the exclusive merchandise or the chance to say you chatted with an Aussie icon, this is one cultural canvas you won’t want to leave blank.
Where: HOTA, 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise
When: From 13th September 2025 – 15th February 2026
Words by Lisette Drew
STORY SPONSORED BY HOTA
Broadway blockbuster In The Heights turns up the heat this September.
There’s something special about seeing a musical theatre show on Broadway in New York. The lights, the hype, the energy – it’s hard to match. But who says the Gold Coast can’t have musical magic of its own? Thanks to HOTA, we’re getting front-row seats to world-class musicals.
That’s right drama queens, Broadway is coming to the beach! The four-time Tony Award winning musical In The Heights is cha-cha-cha-ing its way to HOTA this September in a South East Queensland exclusive that’s set to raise the roof.
Presented by Experience Gold Coast and Joshua Robson Productions, this high-energy, salsa-infused spectacle has already wowed Australian audiences at the Hayes Theatre and the Sydney Opera House. Now, it’s our turn to feel the rhythm and the rhyme.
From the genius mind of Lin-Manuel Miranda (yes, that Hamilton guy — he’s a leading man in theatre these days), In The Heights spins a heartfelt tale of community, culture and chasing your dreams.
Set in the vibrant Washington Heights neighbourhood of New York City, In The Heights follows Usnavi, a bodega owner, and his vibrant community as they navigate love, identity, hope, and the meaning of home. Think block party meets Broadway, with a whole lotta heart.
With soaring Latin rhythms, hip-hop beats and a heart full of dreams, this electrifying show celebrates all walks of life, capturing what it means to hold tight to your roots while reaching for the future, where a winning lottery ticket could change everything.
Yarmila Alfonzetti, Head of Arts and Culture at Experience Gold Coast, says it best, “We are thrilled to welcome the powerhouse production of In the Heights to the Gold Coast. By bringing a Broadway hit to HOTA exclusively, we’re providing our locals and visitors with a production that radiates passion and joy.”
It will be a standing ovation every night with a cast that’s absolutely stacked: Ryan Gonzalez (Moulin Rouge! The Musical) stars as the lovable narrator Usnavi, Olivia Vásquez (West Side Story) dazzles as Vanessa, with Richard Valdez bringing charm (and piraguas!) as Piragua Guy, and Mariah Gonzalez shining bright as Nina Rosario.
Helming the production is the dynamic duo, director Luke Joslin and choreographer Amy Campbell, both Helpmann-nominated and ready to bring the drama in the best way possible.
Whether you’re a musical theatre die-hard or just looking for a night of infectious energy, powerful performances and maybe a few tears (we all cry during the “Paciencia y Fe” number, don’t @ us), this is the Gold Coast’s ticket to Broadway, no passport required.
So warm up your vocal cords and dust off your dancing shoes because you’ll not want to miss your shot at seeing In The Heights this September. Book now.
Where: HOTA, 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise
When: From 12th September 2025
Words by Lisette Drew
STORY SPONSORED BY HOTA
An art lovers guide to the Gold Coast.
We’re sure you’ve noticed (there are gorg murals everywhere now), but Gold Coast’s local art scene is popping off! From galleries to murals, exhibitions to workshops, our talented local artists are making themselves known here and on the national scene.
So, if you’re looking for a unique way to spend a day on the Gold Coast, why not appreciate all the exceptional art on offer?
Here’s a list of local galleries to help you get your art fix (listed north to south).
Gallery One is a leading contemporary fine art gallery representing collectible and established multi-award-winning artists from around Australia. In other words, expect to be impressed. From Ken Done to Goompi Ugerabah, the featured artists are expansive in their material use and host a wide breadth of colour, making for a captivating and curious visit.
Where: Shop 16.02 The Brickworks 107 Ferry Road, Southport
Anthea Polson established her namesake gallery after working for over thirteen years at one of Australia’s largest commercial art galleries. Anthea Polson Art specialises in contemporary Australian art and sculpture, representing Australia’s top emerging artists and exhibiting major investment works. Alongside her team, Anthea has helped promote emerging Australian contemporary artists, host a regular exhibition programme, and provide clients a superior art consultancy service since 2009.
Where: 29 Tedder Avenue, Main Beach
It’s all in the name, really. The Gold Coast’s Home of The Arts. HOTA is the city’s premier cultural precinct and has been showcasing visual and performing arts since 1986. This place is phenomenal, with an impressive array of exhibitions, cinema, dining/bar facilities, and a non-stop schedule of live shows, activities, and workshops. Whether you’re keen to see the works of award-winning artists, sculptures and photographers, see a live theatre show or take a live drawing workshop, you can find it here.
Where: 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise
Located next to Broadbeach SLSC, the Royal Queensland Art Society is a place to view, buy and create art. They offer classes from life drawing to acrylic and sketching and host an ‘Art in The Park’ on the second Sunday of each month, where artists can sell their work at the park. It’s free admission, and they’ve even got an Art Cafe to grab refreshments from after a busy day of getting creative.
Where: 25 Broadbeach Boulevard, Broadbeach
This stunning Mermaid Beach gallery showcases bold, eye-catching art- all for purchase- by over ninety local and international artists. Curated by Terri Lew, the space is divided into six interconnected exhibition spaces featuring a diverse range of styles and genres, from realism and abstract to pop art and pop surrealism and more!
Where: 19 Karen Avenue, Mermaid Beach
Standing for ‘Art Lives on Walls’, ALOW is a brand new artist-driven gallery space in Mermaid Beach, created as a sanctuary for creative freedom, experimentation, and storytelling. Founded by the owners of We Sell Prints, Jarrad and Sarah Miller, ALOW is about reestablishing our connection with art off-screen; physically standing in front of a piece and feeling it. They also host bold exhibitions, hands-on workshops and artist-led events.
Where: 2/53-55 Cronulla Ave, Mermaid Beach
Did you know world-renowned landscape photographs are available for us to marvel at on the Gold Coast?! We’re talking about Wayne Sorrenson’s works and his gallery in Miami! From wildlife to national and international landscapes, his gallery features a vast selection of framed artwork to purchase, as well as a range of gift ideas, including acrylic blocks, greeting cards and calendars, to name a few. It’s all absolutely breathtaking.
Where: 40 Lemana Lane, Miami
Meet the freshest artist-run gallery on the Gold Coast (and perhaps beyond). It’s called Mint Art House, and it’s home to 12 talented emerging artists ranging from painters to sculptors, muralists to ceramicists, located in Burleigh Heads. Like all good art studios, Mint is a collaborative space that frequently hosts exhibitions, artist talks and workshops including poetry nights and life drawing.
Where: 5/87 West Burleigh Road, Burleigh Heads
The HIVE is another artist-run studio (we love to see it), a fine art gallery and co-operative art space. They support local and international, emerging and established artists of all skill levels, as an effort to encourage inclusivity and creativity. Within the gallery, you’ll find an array of stunning works available for purchase, or if you’d like to stay awhile, why not grab a ticket to one of their workshops! Life drawing, anyone? There’s also a regular meetup and music night if you want to meet some like-minded folks.
Where: Unit 23/5 Coghill Dr, Currumbin Waters
Just the sight of this gorgeous refurbished warehouse (a piece of art itself) in the heart of Currumbin Waters is enough to ignite one’s inspiration. Dust Temple is a creative space (also an art gallery, cafe and bar) where likeminds can meet and share their love of the arts. They host live music, performances, poetry, exhibitions and workshops.
Where: 54 Currumbin Creek Road, Currumbin Waters
Maverick is a one-of-a-kind space where art, hair and health come together! The small gallery space allows local artists to showcase their work (some available for purchase) and connect, hosting community art exhibitions and events throughout the year. There are also beautiful gifts for purchase from both near and far.
Where: First Floor, 1/17 Griffith Street, Coolangatta
Home to the Margaret Olley Art Centre (MOAC), the Gallery Shop and Apex Dining, the architecturally award-winning Tweed Regional Gallery makes for a perfect day across the border. Start with breakfast at Apex, enjoyed with a breathtaking panoramic view of the Tweed River before heading to the MOAC; a gallery celebrating the life of Australia’s most celebrated still life and interior painter. Don’t forget to pick up a keepsake at the Gallery Shop on your way out!
Where: 2 Mistral Rd, South Murwillumbah
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
Level-up your drinking game.
If Queensland weather doesn’t shout rooftop bars at you in a high-pitched squeal, we don’t know what will. Our climate, coupled with the amazing hospitality scene here in our city, means these open-air meccas of good times and delicious libations are the prime place to find yourself — any time of the year! It’s all about drinks in the sunshine and snapping selfies with picturesque backgrounds for Insta-bragging purposes.
So, in honour of bars in high places, here are 14 next-level rooftop bars (listed north to south) you should prioritise visiting this weekend, next weekend and the weekend after…
Aviary Rooftop Bar
Perched atop Mantra on Sharks, Aviary Rooftop Bar’s views are as stunning as their extensive drinks list. With 180 degree views over the Surfers Paradise skyline and the ocean, it’s the perfect place for an after work beverage or Sunday arvo session with the crew. Ohh and don’t even get us started on their authentic Italian pizzas, and tapas… if you know, you know.
Where: Mantra at Sharks, Melia Ct, Southport (next to Southport Sharks)
Mr PP’s Deli & Rooftop Bar
A game-changer in Southport’s food and beverage scene, Mr PP’s is a multi level pizzeria and rooftop bar boasting city views and plenty of good vibes in the century-old postal building. There is a generous menu full of pizzas, tapas and charcuterie boards, the ideal scenario. Plus cocktails and local tipples, of which there are many. Live music on Sundays too.
Where: 43 Nerang St, Southport
Last Night on Earth
Pretty sure that if it were, in fact, your last night on Earth, you would want to spend it at a sweet rooftop bar with bulk cocktails at the ready. Last Night on Earth is the work of local legend Arran Wollams and his crew. It’s a somewhat underworld themed rooftop bar in the heart of Southport offering good times aplenty. It’s a dive bar, but not as you know it. Check it out.
Where: 50b Nerang St, Southport
Cali Beach Club
Cali Beach Club is not just a rooftop bar, it’s Australia’s largest Beach Club! This Gold Coast classic is the ultimate beachside party destination that’s never known a dull moment. The 2L spritzer and cocktail jugs may have something to do with this… One minute, you’re lounging on your dedicated daybed by the pool. Next, you’re sipping a Cali Colada in the pool. What’s that? The DJ set has begun?! Off to the dancefloor with you!
Where: 21a Elkhorn Ave, Surfers Paradise
Lulu Rooftop & Bar
Say hello to the lovely Lulu. Think Miami’s art deco scene meets laid-back tropical Gold Coast, with lush greenery, plush booth seating and marble-topped bars, it’s a vibe! Throw in the fact it’s on a rooftop and we’re sold. Okay, that’s a lie, our booths were booked when we got word of Throwback Thursdays, RnB Fridays and the regular Grils Brunches…
Where: Level 2/4 Orchid Ave, Surfers Paradise
The Exhibitionist Bar
News flash: HOTA isn’t just for the arts and culture, people, it’s also for cocktails. Speciality cocktails- each inspired by and changed to reflect the art centre’s current major exhibitions. We feel more cultured already. Enjoy it all while absorbing the breathtaking views of the city skyline. The highly talented Tom Angel heads up the bar and cocktail list, which is a seriously good spot for a sundowner — and the ideal place to take out of towners!
Where: Level 5/135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise
The Island Rooftop
It’s the largest open-air (and much adored) rooftop on the Gold Coast, perched on top of The Island in Surfers Paradise. This spot is kind of a unicorn, being part nightclub, part bar and part live music venue. It’s where killer beats meet delicious eats and craft cocktails. Every weekend you’ll find a line-up of DJs playing, a specially curated cocktail menu, and indulgent share-style eats. Think of it as your new weekend ritual.
Where: 3128 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise
Nineteen at The Star
The fanciest of the bunch is undoubtedly Nineteen at The Star, complete with velvet booth-style seating, an infinity pool and ocean views for days. Found atop The Star Gold Coast’s The Darling, Nineteen is the perfect place for people-watching, dressing up and sipping on fancy tipples while dancing the night away. Be sure to take a snap on the runway stretching out into the pool!
Where: The Darling, Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach
JuJu
This rooftop bar has serious “it’s a vibe” energy. JuJu in Nobby Beach delivers upscale dining with a side of cheeky fun. Split across two levels, this venue is perfect for sunset cocktails and late-night revelry. Expect Euro-summer vibes, lush greenery, and after-hours parties that feel straight out of Mykonos. With a sleek rooftop bar featuring a retractable roof, tequila carts, and live DJ-saxophonist duos, JuJu is where you go when you’re ready to keep the night alive.
Where: 2235 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
Sueno Rooftop
Sueno is one of (if not, the) hottest bars on the Gold Coast, and for excellent reason. Go from dinner at Norte to a chilled rooftop, and chat the night away under the moonlight with a marg in hand. The Nobby Beach venue is ideal for a weekend catch-up, a mid-week cheeky cocktail, or an epic bottomless brunch every Saturday and Sunday. Do yourself a favour, find yourself here sipping a cocktail whilst drinking in the gorgeous view.
Where: 2215 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
Justin Lane
A much-loved favourite among locals and visitors alike, Justin Lane is still one of the most popular rooftops on the Gold Coast and was actually the coast’s first official rooftop bar opening in 2011! Hard to imagine. The space is intimate, with booth-style seating overlooking Burleigh and plenty of cocktails to tickle your fancy. Once you’re done slinging back bevvys with the gang, head downstairs for some fair dinkum pizza (it’s so damn good).
Where: 1708-1710 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Burleigh Pavilion
This one is straight-up iconic and the vibe is a match. It’s as close to the ocean as you can get with a cocktail before it becomes a safety hazard. You may be closer to Earth for this one, but the view here is arguably the best on the Gold Coast. Soak in the stunning sunshine while mulling over which epic cocktail to try first.
Where: 3a/43 Goodwin Tce, Burleigh Heads
The Collective
Everyone’s favourite multi-restaurant establishment, The Collective in Palm Beach, boasts a sweet rooftop bar with epic cocktails for your sipping pleasure. You can also order eats from one of the five menus on offer and watch the sunset while you’re at it. We recommend it.
Where: 1128 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach
Kirra Beach House
Making waves for all the right reasons – Kirra Beach House redefined the southern eats and sips game. The handiwork of local hospo gun, Dave Galvin, which speaks to the caliber in and of itself – with three seperate bars, insta-worthy interiors, cabana-studded wraparound terrace and panoramic ocean views from all angles! We’d be remiss not to also mention the Mediterranean-style grazing and crafted cocktails. Perfect 10’s all round.
Where: Level 1, 2 Marine Pde, Coolangatta
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
