The creators of We Sell Prints have opened a brand-new artist-driven gallery space in Mermaid called ALOW
Art is more than just something to hang on the wall – it’s a dynamic force that ignites conversation, stirs emotions and invites us, the viewers, into the artist’s world. For Sarah and Jarrad Miller, co-owners of successful fine-art printing service We Sell Prints, this belief runs deep. It’s this passion for the creative process and its ability to connect people that has led them to launch their latest venture – ALOW (Art Lives on Walls), a fresh, artist-driven gallery space in Mermaid Beach. Here’s everything you need to know about this new creative hub …
ALOW is more than just a gallery – it’s a haven for experimentation, self-expression and storytelling. Designed to support and elevate artists, the gallery provides them with a space to showcase their work in a way that transcends traditional white-walled galleries. As Sarah explains, the goal is to offer a platform where art isn’t just something you observe, but something you feel.
The concept of ALOW has been a long time in the making. Before We Sell Prints, Sarah and Jarrad ran the Damn Good Store in Burleigh Heads, a space that served as an incubator for local artists, makers and creators. As their business evolved, they realised their true passion was in fine-art printing and supporting artists in bringing their visions to life, but more importantly, monetising their work. “We want the artists to get paid,” Sarah says. When a lease in the building became available, they saw it as the next step in the brand’s evolution – creating a dedicated gallery that gives artists a platform.
In a world where art is often consumed through screens, ALOW is all about reestablishing the magic of standing in front of a piece and truly experiencing it. Sarah and Jarrad want visitors to feel the texture, the scale and the energy of each artwork. “It’s about creating a connection between artist and viewer, vision and space,” Sarah says.
Unlike traditional galleries where art can sometimes be a set and forget experience, ALOW is designed to be interactive. The gallery encourages exhibiting artists to actively shape the experience – from bold exhibitions to hands-on workshops and artist-led events. This unique approach aims to make art more accessible and engaging for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned art collector or simply someone who appreciates the power of creativity.
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One of ALOW’s standout features is its inclusivity for a variety of buyers. Thanks to We Sell Prints, original artwork and limited-edition fine art prints will be available for purchase, catering to both avid art-lovers who prefer owning original pieces and those who fall in love with artwork but may not have the budget for one-of-a-kind works. As Sarah explains, ALOW is designed to meet the needs of two distinct types of buyers – the true collector and the more transient art lover.
ALOW is not just about selling art, it’s about creating a community that celebrates the beauty of tangible, emotional and real creativity. It’s an extension of everything We Sell Prints stands for – empowering artists to bring their visions to life and giving collectors a space to engage with art in a meaningful way.
To kick off ALOW’s journey, the gallery’s inaugural exhibition is called Psychic Cowgirl Cat by Australian artist Karlee Mackie, also known as MLAK. With her surreal and untamed style, MLAK invites viewers into a wild, otherworldly universe where cosmic cowgirls, masked tigers and mystical figures roam. It’s a show that promises to captivate and transport you to a realm where imagination reigns supreme. Opening night will be on Saturday March 29, from 6:00–9:00 pm at ALOW, 2/53-55 Cronulla Avnue Mermaid Beach.
Image credit: Claudio Kirac, art in the images is MLAK (Karlee Mackie)