ABOUT
HI THERE!
Drawn From Here is an annual creative art journal project open to all residents on the Mid North Coast. Participants of all ages and skill levels are supplied with a blank A5 art journal which they are invited to complete however they wish. These art journals then form a unique, fun and interactive exhibition.
WHO CAN ENTER?
Drawn From Here is open to all residents on the NSW Mid North Coast. Whether you’re already a practising creative, or someone that has always needed an excuse to give it a go, Drawn From Here is for you! Writers, photographers, musicians, poets, artists, designers, illustrators, and a mix of them all, if you’re creative and have an idea for filling your own art journal, why not enter Drawn From Here 2026.
Stay Connected
As the Drawn From Here Project continues to grow, we’re embracing a new rhythm. The project now run's from August to February, giving participants a six-month window for their creative journey. This shift allows us to align more naturally with the flow of our community, offering a spacious summer stretch to explore, create, and reflect. Journals will still be distributed, filled with possibility, and exhibited in a professionally presented show at Sunset Framing and Gallery. The essence remains the same: connection, creativity, and community through the shared language of art. - The Drawn From Here Team
This Seasons Optional Theme
"Along The Way" is the optional theme for those who like to use a theme. Use the theme or take your DFHP journal your own way, the choice is yours.
Important Dates for 2026
Registrations:
– Opens: 1 August 2026
– Closes: 1 December 2026 (or earlier if maximum numbers are reached)
Journal Return Deadline
– Due: By close of business Tuesday 5th February 2027
Exhibition Dates
– Opening Day: 10am till 12pm - Sunday 14 February 2027 (We can share the "love" of creativity)
– Exhibition Closes: Sunday 28 February 2027
Journal Collection
– Pick-up Window: 2–7 March 2027
– Uncollected Journals: Will be added to the Drawn From Here Journal Library, which is open to the public year-round.
We adore this community — and we’re so glad you’re here. Keep an eye on our socials for bursts of inspiration, glimpses into past journals, behind-the-scenes moments, and all the love as we prepare for the next chapter. There’s still plenty to share, and always more to come.
Project Administrator
Cherie Rayner
Cherie Rayner has been a steadfast supporter of Drawn From Here from its inception, offering encouragement and assistance to project founder Katherine Appleby as a friend and fellow creator. Alongside her husband Scott Rayner, as owners of Sunset Framing & Gallery, Cherie stepped into the role of a major sponsor, ensuring the project's growth and success. Today, Cherie serves as the head administrator of Drawn From Here, overseeing its operations and fostering its continued development as a vibrant community art initiative.
Project Operations
Scott Rayner
Scott Rayner, alongside his family, has been a cornerstone of the arts community for over 40 years as owners and operators of Sunset Framing & Gallery. Scott's involvement in Drawn From Here spans from the official welcome on opening day to the physical advancement of the project. From constructing display shelves and racking to providing administrative support and customer service. His dedication to advancing the project's physical elements, such as the LED-lit signage, showcases his commitment to enhancing the participant and viewer experience alike.
Project Founder
Katherine Appleby
Drawn From Here owes its inception to the vision of Illustrator and Designer, Katherine Appleby, who established the project in 2018. It was a sense of community, creativity, and a desire to connect the two that inspired Katherine's vision to bring this project together. Katherine, a watercolor and digital illustrator now based in Canberra, Australia, initiated the idea and brought it to the team at Sunset Gallery. She saw in us a shared commitment to connecting the creative community to the community as a whole. Since then, Sunset Gallery has taken on the project with enthusiasm, becoming major sponsors and ensuring its continuity. Katherine's original vision aimed to showcase the unique diversity of the Mid North Coast creative region, fostering connections among local creatives and providing a non-confrontational, safe space for community exhibition. As Drawn From Here continues to thrive in 2026, we extend our gratitude to Katherine and all participants who have contributed to its success, from its inception to present day.
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