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Art, Heritage + Culture
Shipwrecks, Art and History
King Island’s history is written into its coastline. Ships have come to grief here for generations, and the lighthouses still stand as reminders of just how powerful Bass Strait can be.
There’s an arts scene too, just not the kind you might expect. You’ll find handmade kelp art, lighthouse tours, pottery made from island-dug clay, and local makers whose work is shaped by the place they live.
Some galleries and studios are open by appointment. Some take a little finding. If a door is open, go in…you might find a cuppa on or someone up for a chat.
Art on King Island
For a small island, King Island has a lively arts scene shaped by the landscape, the weather and the people who call this place home. You’ll find handmade kelp craft, pottery made from island clay, local exhibitions, workshops, and the Boat Shed on Currie Harbour: an iconic little restaurant with no food, where art is bought by honesty box or simply enjoyed.
You’ll also find local and visiting artists at the Reekara Community Complex Top Shop. Pop in for a coffee and take your time browsing an eclectic mix of art, craft and the occasional batch of local produce. Housed in the old primary school, it’s full of character from the moment you walk through the door.
King Island Kelp Craft
View their unique gifts and souvenirs crafted from Bull Kelp. Discover the process of cutting, scoring, stitching and manipulating the kelp to transform it into a variety of objects. Stop…
King Island Maritime Trail
Take a self-drive journey around King Island to discover the dramatic stories of shipwrecks that shaped the island’s history. Stop at interpretation sites and memorial cairns marking where ships went…
King Island Gallery
You’re guaranteed a warm welcome at the King Island Gallery, located in the picturesque Currie Wharf precinct. The gallery offers a rotating calendar of exhibitions, artworks for sale from local…
