19 July to 3 August 2025

Prepare to be captivated by North Queensland’s premier public art festival, as we proudly present Ephemera 2025: Trace-less in Townsville-Gurambilbarra, Australia. The theme “Trace-less” is centred on awareness of place, Country, and the environment. As the name suggests, Ephemera 2025 artists are asked to creatively explore ideas of the transitory, leaving less of a trace on our environment.

Ephemera 2025 introduces a new competitive category for young artists and school groups alongside the celebrated open competitive category!

Location

Ephemera 2025 will be displayed along The Strand in Townsville, Australia. The Strand is a 2.2km world-class beachfront open space custom-built for enjoyment. This iconic beachfront forms part of a 10.9km stretch of palm tree lined bike and walkway paths, safe swimming beaches, picturesque picnic spots, playgrounds, exercise stations, a water park and restaurants and bars with spectacular water views.

Visitors can enjoy the free family fun of The Strand Water Park, fish off the pier, choose to get active with a leisurely walk, an invigorating run, or a scenic cycling adventure, or simply laze on the beach and enjoy the million-dollar views of Magnetic Island. The Strand offers the best of all worlds.

For avid photographers and nature enthusiasts, The Strand is a haven for capturing unforgettable moments. With its awe-inspiring sunsets, shimmering blue waters, and the distant Magnetic Island as a backdrop, this is a photographer's paradise, offering endless opportunities for breathtaking shots.

Cartoon of olive-backed sunbird

Name Our Mascot

The 2025 Ephemera mascot has arrived, and a little birdy told us they need a name! This little creature is an Olive-backed Sunbird, a bird local to much of Queensland’s coast.

We need your help to name our new friend. We’re taking suggestions until 11:59pm, 20 January 2025. Keep an eye on Townsville City Galleries’ Facebook page in February 2025 for the name announcement.

The Ephemera mascot was influenced by Selwyn Johnson’s artwork, Aranda, 2024.