Contemporary Impressionism

Burrinja Presents

Contemporary Impressionism

Sat 27 Jun - Sun 9 Aug 2026 | Burrinja Gallery

Exhibition Opening - RSVP

Glenda Wise - Peter Smales - Maxwell Wilks

From Studio to Gallery

Step into a world rich with colour and light within the vibrant works of three of the
best of Australia’s most celebrated Artists, Glenda Wise, Peter Smales, and
Maxwell Wilks.

This assembly is a rare showcase of unique talent - presented in oils, watercolour
and pastels - it focuses on the Australian landscape, stunning florals, portrait, and
still life.

While diverse in subject matter and mood, each artist brings a unique vision of
drama and bold brushwork, and all are united by a deep reverence for shifting
atmospheres, and the depth of beauty in what they see before them.

Peter Smales: His paintings are principally known for their rich colours, captured
moods and impressionistic effects. Peter draws his inspiration from the endless
variety found in nature as well as unexpected corners of the civilised world.

Glenda Wise: As a resident of the Dandenong Ranges, is surrounded by
inspiration. She is known for her strokes of vivid colour and energy in voluptuous
florals, intimate landscapes and vibrant illustrations.

Maxwell Wilks: With his bold use of colour and draftsmanship, Max brings
dramatic light and shadow to the landscape. Gathered direct from life, he portrays
many varied and familiar scenes with strength and vitality, especially within his
maritime subjects.

Within this exhibition, you may recognise a few local surprises.

Exhibiton Opening Sunday 28 June, 2pm (free event)

Join us for the opening celebration of this new exhibition and experience the work alongside the artists. The exhibition will be officially opened by Peter Trusler - internationally renowned palaeoartist and author of Thrice Told: The Psychological Evolution of the Artist.

Live music by Tyra Lewis
Tyra is a Melbourne-based singer-songwriter whose soulful sound blends RnB, soul and folk influences with her Tongan heritage. Beginning on Instagram in 2017, she has since completed a Bachelor of Music Performance, performs with HALO Vocal Ensemble, and has provided backing vocals for artists including Jessica Mauboy.

Other events of interest

Glenda Wise - Artist Talk and Book Signing
Sun 5 Jul | 2pm-3pm | Burrinja Gallery

Glenda Wise will present an illustrated talk reflecting on her life journey as an artist, illustrator, adventurer and author.

At just 13 years old, she became the youngest member of the newly formed Sherbrooke Artists Society in 1966 — the beginning of a creative path that led to many adventures through art and writing.

Glenda’s books will also be available for purchase and signing following the talk.

Peter Smales - Oil Painting Demonstration
Sat 19 Jul | 2pm-3pm | Airlock Gallery | Free

Peter will be demonstrating composition and colour mixing in oil paint. The subject will be a summer morning on the Beaumaris cliffs.

Maxwell Wilks - Artist Talk
Sun 2 Aug | 2pm-2.30pm | Burrinja Gallery



Information

When

Sat 27 Jun - Sun 9 Aug 2026

Hours

Wed - Sun 10am to 4pm

Where

Burrinja Gallery
351 Glenfern Rd, Upwey 3158

Exhibition Opening

Sun 28 Jun 2pm-4pm

Ticket Pricing

All TicketsFREE

Accessibility

Wheelchair access
Guide dogs and support animals are welcome

Exhibition Opening (free event) Sun 28 Jun 2pm

Join us to celebrate the launch of his new exhibition.

RSVP here

FAQs

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