Community
20 February, 2026
Chance encounter turns to creative works in new Charlton exhibition
The exhibition was officially opened by curator Chris Wyatt, who spoke about his first encounter with Ms Hindson’s work.
A PLEASING turnout marked the official opening of Sonya Hindson’s exhibition at the Charlton Courthouse Gallery on Sunday afternoon.
Visitors were greeted by gallery walls adorned with vibrant colour, layered imagery and striking compositions that invited viewers to pause, reflect and engage.
The exhibition was officially opened by curator Chris Wyatt, who spoke about his first encounter with Ms Hindson’s work.
Mr Wyatt explained he met Sonya at the local pub, where a conversation about art led to her sharing images of her pieces. Impressed by what he saw, he encouraged her to consider exhibiting.
In response, Ms Hindson, who is highly regarded for her animal portraiture commissions - particularly her detailed and expressive dog portraits, spoke warmly about her artistic journey and the deeply personal nature of the works featured in the exhibition.
“These pieces are my more personal works,” she said.
“They’re very different from my commissioned portraits.
“I never really imagined they would be displayed publicly, let alone offered for sale.”
Ms Hindson said her collage pieces originated during her breast cancer treatment.
Faced with blank canvases and struggling for inspiration, she instead turned to her collection of magazine and book pages, experimenting with imagery, symbolism and colour.
The opening afternoon proved a resounding success, with a dozen pieces sold.
Although delighted, Sonya admitted parting with some works was not without emotion.
“It’s always a little difficult to let certain pieces go,” she said. “But selling work means I can make room for new ideas and more art,” she said.
The exhibition will continue this weekend, coinciding with the popular OK Motels event.
With a large influx of visitors expected in town, organisers anticipate strong interest from festivalgoers.
You can take a look at Ms Hindson’s range of works at the Charlton Courthouse Gallery in February and March. The gallery is located at 8 Camp Street.
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