Arts, Crafts and Produce
Cooktown has a lively cultural scene with several artists, photographers, writers and craftsmen and women residing in the region. There is an enthusiastic music scene and popular local bands have achieved national acclaim. Local produce is abundant in season and the markets provide a focal point for the community.
Community Markets
Buy local produce and crafts at Cooktown, Rossville and Bloomfield Markets
- Bloomfield Market
Arts
There is a lively arts scene and a variety of art galleries in Cooktown and Bloomfield.
The Cooktown School of Art and the Cooktown Creative Arts Association welcome visitors and have local arts and crafts for sale.
Local artist Vera Scarth-Johnson has a permanent exhibition at Nature's Powerhouse.
Hopevale and Laura both have fascinating cultural centres showcasing local artists and the Art Gang at Lockhart River have received international acclaim.
The Aurukun Art Centre displays unique basket weaving as well as carvings and arts and is not to be missed.
For further information on the arts visit the Arts Cape York website.
Music in Cooktown
Several venues in and near Cooktown have live music performances including The Top Pub every Saturday, The Lion's Den Hotel and the RSL Club. Check the live music listings for what's happening.
Local bands who have acheived national and international acclaim include Black Image and The Roadtrippers who often play at The Top Pub.
In September the 3 day Wallaby Creek Festival is one of Queensland's most popular live music festivals - bring the whole family for a great weekend of entertainment.
Photography
Talented local photographers have a wealth of inspiration in Cooktown.
See the photo gallery for more images
- Courtesy Vanessa Gillen
Wood Carving
Visit the Aurukun Art Centre for distinctive carvings. In Cooktown, carver Mark Berg creates beautiful custom made woodwork.
What's Happening
April 10-May 31 Down Under Exhibition at Black Cockatoo Gallery, Bloomfield
13 April-May 08 Lockhart River Art Gang exhibition at Alcaston Gallery, Melbourne, Vic
May 27-31 Ross Franzi master workshop Brisbane
June 06-14 The Cooktown Arts Competition
