The Art of Storytelling
Fostering creativity to grow sales and build brand affinity
Away in the tranquil folds of the Tweed Hinterland, at the foothills of the majestic Mount Wollumbin lies the Uki Post Office. For over a century, it has stood as a silent sentinel, bearing witness to the ebb and flow of life in the local community since its establishment in 1909. Yet, in 2017, a man named Gary Wall emerged onto the scene, breathing new life into this historic landmark with his love for coffee and community.
Gary Wall is no ordinary postmaster. To him, the dilapidated structure of the old post office was not just a crumbling edifice but a canvas ripe for reinvention. With a bold vision and a considerable investment of half a million dollars, Gary spearheaded a remarkable transformation. The once-neglected building emerged from the dust of neglect, reborn as a fusion of history and modernity. Stepping inside, one can still trace the echoes of the past in the original hoop pine timber benches and weathered ironbark floorboards, all framed by the timeless facade. However, there’s a delightful twist to this tale.
Welcome to Bastion Lane, the local’s haven for the perfect cup of coffee. Gary’s brainchild quickly became a bustling gathering spot for caffeine enthusiasts far and wide. But Gary’s dreams extended beyond the realm of coffee beans. Inspired by the creative energy of local artist Sue Kinneally, whose captivating work he stumbled upon at the Images of Uki annual exhibition, Gary envisioned a harmonious marriage between art and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee.
Thus, Art Post Uki was born—a collaborative venture between Gary and Sue. Under Sue’s curatorship, the post office evolved into a vibrant art space, alive with the hues and narratives of talented local artists. Here, visitors are treated to an eclectic mix of mediums—paintings, prints, photographs, ceramics—all coalescing to create a vibrant collage of local culture and expression. To maintain the gallery’s reputation for quality, every artist undergoes scrutiny by three impartial judges, ensuring fairness and excellence.
The inaugural exhibition of Art Post Uki featured the works of Matt Ottley, a versatile artist celebrated for his contributions to music, writing, and illustration, boasting over 40 published picture books and numerous prestigious awards. Now, as Art Post approaches its sixth year, it stands on the cusp of celebrating its 50th exhibition, a milestone that will showcase the renowned artist Hobie Porter. This achievement is not merely a testament to Gary’s visionary pursuits but also a tribute to the enduring spirit of community enrichment that permeates every corner of Art Post Uki.
As Art Post Uki prepares to mark this significant milestone, it serves as a centre of creativity and collaboration in the heart of the Tweed Hinterland. Beyond its role as a gallery, it has become a vibrant hub where locals and visitors alike come together to celebrate art, culture, and community. So, the next time you find yourself wandering through the picturesque village of Uki, be sure to pay a visit to Art Post Uki, where history, modernity, and creativity blend harmoniously, reflecting the enduring spirit of a community united by its love for art and coffee.
