Douglas Arts Studio Gallery Inc. is a not-for-profit community arts centre located in a charming Heritage listed building in Mossman, QLD.
It is commonly known as DAB, short for - Douglas Arts Base - which was the original name.
DAB is located at 11 Mill Street, Mossman (opposite the Library), in a Heritage listed building now owned by the Douglas Shire Council. Its facilities include a studio gallery where art classes are held and members can exhibit and sell their artwork, and there are two sheds out the back – one for pottery and the other for mosaics and glass work.
A wide variety of art classes are offered across two semesters each year. DAB holds approximately 3 - 4 exhibitions a year, where members are invited to exhibit their artwork.
DAB is run by a Management Committee which is elected each year at its Annual General Meeting (AGM) and it comprises – President, Vice President, Treasurer and 4 committee members (one of whom is appointed as Secretary). The Committee is supported by three Sub-Committees, which are – Finance, Gallery and Work Shed. DAB is 100% run by volunteers.
DAB is governed by its Constitution in accordance with the Associations Incorporation Act 1981, which is administered by The Office of Fair Trading.
DAB is registered with the Australian Charities & Not-for-Profits Commission and submits an Annual Information Statement following each AGM.
The Douglas Arts Base was the brainchild of Marjorie Norris in 2002, and a select few local artists, who were invited to submit a proposal to the Douglas Shire Council for the use of a vacant council owned, Heritage listed building. The group saw a need for basic arts education courses.
Douglas Arts Studio Gallery Incorporated became the first group of its kind in the region to open its hearts and minds to the local community. Local artists and arts educators were invited to present ideas for adult art courses and workshops catering to all levels, abilities and walks of life. The initial workshops included drawing, painting, sculpture, pottery, fibre art, basket making, and many others have been offered over the years. The DAB Management Committee is always open to new ideas, fresh approaches and new tutors.
Through the generous support of the Regional Arts Development Fund, the Douglas Shire Council and the Gambling Community Benefits Fund the building was set up with the essential basics. This allowed the enthusiastic tutors to begin with a series of workshops and to support the use of the premises, and additional equipment has been purchased over the years.
The DAB building was built in 1935/36 and is very significant - it is on the Queensland Heritage Register and is registered with The National Trust.
