The Northern Rivers Community Gallery (NRCG) has established itself as a significant regional arts and cultural hub in the Northern Rivers. NRCG exhibitions and programs promote critical thinking, creative exploration and social cohesion and connect artists, makers and audiences with creative opportunities.
Ballina Shire Council established the NRCG in 2007 in the historic former Ballina Municipal Council Chambers. Built in 1927, the Council renovated this building to the highest standard in lighting, climate control and security. Adjacent to the gallery in the same building is the popular Ballina Gallery Cafe.
The gallery features four exhibition spaces and presents a range of professional, multi-arts and cultural programs incorporating diverse events, public programs and residencies. NRCG provides opportunities for emerging and established artists to hire galleries and exhibit and sell their work under subsidised arrangements.
In 2018 NRCG expanded into the heritage-listed former Ballina Fire Station, which reopened as Ignite Studios. Ignite Studios, Ballina's newest multidisciplinary creative space provides dedicated, fit-for-purpose, creative spaces for studios, residencies, projects and events.
