Local artist Mirabela Varga brings her much-loved presence at the Byron Markets into a new setting this autumn, with Coherence now on show at Byron Spaces Gallery at the Byron Community Centre through to 1 June.
Known for her vibrant, textured works created using a palette knife, Varga has spent more than 17 years developing a distinctive style shaped by emotion, intuition and connection to place. Coherence marks a natural continuation of this journey, exploring themes of calm, resilience and emotional clarity.
“My journey as an artist has been one of devotion, persistence and deep personal growth. Art has always been more than a career for me, it has been a way to process emotions, express truth and create meaningful connections with people through colour and texture,” said Mirabela.
“Coherence represents alignment between the inner world and outer expression, between feeling and form, and between the artist and the viewer.”
Working in acrylic on canvas, the exhibition features expressive landscapes and florals inspired by the Byron Shire and Northern Rivers, where Varga lives and works. Her signature palette knife technique creates bold texture and movement, inviting viewers to engage with the work on a deeper and more emotional level.
“My style is contemporary impressionism with a strong focus on texture, movement and emotional depth. The palette knife encourages intuition and spontaneity, which helps me stay connected to the emotion behind each piece.”
Living in the region has played a significant role in shaping Varga’s practice, with its coastal landscapes, natural light and creative community continuing to influence her work. Her long-standing presence at the Byron Markets has also grounded her art in direct connection with people.
“Being present in the Byron Markets environment keeps my art connected to real people and real emotions. It reminds me that art is ultimately about human connection and shared experience.”
Now presented within Byron Spaces Gallery, Coherence offers a more immersive environment for audiences to experience the work. As a free exhibition space located within the Byron Community Centre, the gallery supports local artists while making art accessible to the wider community.
“Byron Spaces Gallery is such a special addition to Byron Community Centre, it gives local artists a place to be seen and gives the community a reason to stop in, explore and connect with the new seasonal work,” said Carl Taylor, Byron Spaces Coordinator.
“I hope visitors walk away feeling something real, whether that is calm, inspiration, reflection, or emotional connection,” added Mirabela. “If someone leaves feeling more grounded, uplifted or quietly moved then the exhibition has done what it was meant t o do.”
Coherence by Mirabela Varga is currently on display at Byron Spaces Gallery, located within the Byron Community Centre.
Exhibition details
Coherence by Mirabela Varga
Byron Spaces Gallery, Byron Community Centre, 69 Jonson Street, Byron Bay
Open weekdays, 10am to 4pm
Now showing through to 1 June
Free entry
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