A new exhibition celebrates the extraordinary marine environment on our doorstep. The remarkable marine environment of the Central Coast will be celebrated through the eyes of six local artists in Coastal Encounters, a new Marine Photography & Art Exhibition opening at the Central Coast Marine Discovery Centre in Terrigal this September.
Running from 27 September to 11 October 2026, the free exhibition brings together the work of six local photographers and artists with a shared passion for the Central Coast and its marine environment.
From rugged coastlines, seascapes and rocky reefs to sponge gardens, marine creatures and fleeting moments of behaviour, Coastal Encounters reveals the diversity and beauty of the marine world that surrounds us.
The exhibition features the work of Izabela Sajdok, Matt Dowse, Dr William Gladstone, Margot Hislop, Lee Emery and Julie Jones, each offering a unique perspective on the places, species and experiences that connect the Central Coast community with the ocean.
“From sponge gardens and rocky reefs to iconic species and fleeting moments of behaviour, these images reveal the extraordinary world that exists within our coastal and marine environment. Created by local photographers and artists with a deep connection to the ocean, this exhibition celebrates the creatures, seascapes and ecosystems that make the Central Coast one of Australia’s hidden marine treasures, while inspiring appreciation and stewardship of our blue backyard.”
Coastal Encounters aims to encourage visitors to look at the Central Coast’s marine environment in a different way — not simply as the beaches and ocean we see from the shore, but as a complex and interconnected ecosystem extending from the coastline and intertidal zone through to rocky reefs, deeper waters and the diverse species that inhabit them.
The exhibition also highlights the important connection between art, science, community and conservation, using photography and art to encourage curiosity, appreciation and a greater understanding of the marine environment we all share.
Exhibiting artist Julie Jones, a local aspiring nature photographer and ocean advocate, says the exhibition is an opportunity to celebrate the extraordinary marine environment of the Central Coast.
“We are incredibly fortunate to have such a diverse marine environment right on our doorstep. From our beaches, rocky shores and seascapes to the extraordinary creatures and habitats beneath the surface, there is so much to discover,” says Jones.
“Through our images, we hope people will see the Central Coast from a different perspective, develop a deeper appreciation for what we have here, and be inspired to help protect it.”
Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the exhibition throughout its two-week run at the Central Coast Marine Discovery Centre, opening every day during the school holidays.
Coastal Encounters — Marine Photography & Art Exhibition
Where: Central Coast Marine Discovery Centre, Terrigal NSW
When: Sunday 27 September – Sunday 11 October 2026
Opening hours: 12 noon – 3:30pm daily
Entry: Free
Exhibiting artists: Izabela Sajdok | Matt Dowse | Dr William Gladstone | Margot Hislop | Lee Emery | Julie Jones
Samala Oxenford
Central Coast Marine Photography & Art Exhibition
Central Coast Marine Discovery Centre Inc.
