A Year in Review: Bluethumb Highlights of 2024
As the year comes to a close, we’re reflecting on an unforgettable 2024 filled with milestones, stunning exhibitions, and exciting projects. Here’s a recap of the moments that defined our year and set the stage for an even brighter 2025.
Showcasing Talented Artists at the Affordable Art Fairs
Bluethumb proudly showcased an incredible lineup of artists this year at Australia’s Affordable Art Fairs. At Melbourne’s Affordable Art Fair, we featured the works of 15 talented artists, including a special sculpture-focused booth highlighting Brad Gunn’s unforgettable velvet-flocked sculptures. For Brisbane’s debut Affordable Art Fair, we celebrated Queensland’s vibrant creative scene by presenting six exceptional local artists. These events allowed our team to connect face-to-face with first-time and returning collectors, sharing the excitement of discovering new artworks.
The Bluethumb team at Brisbane Affordable Art Fair. Artwork (left-right) by Meredith Howse, Wendy Moore and Lucinda Leveille.
Bluethumb’s Galleries Showcased Dual 40X40 Exhibitions
Bluethumb proudly presented Bluethumb x Southern Buoy: 40 x 40, a dual-location exhibition in collaboration with Southern Buoy Framing. This curated showcase featured 100 stunning artworks by 50 Bluethumb artists, all crafted on 40 x 40 canvases framed by Southern Buoy.
Spanning two gallery locations, the exhibition celebrated the intersection of artistic expression and expert craftsmanship. The galleries came alive with vibrant landscapes, intricate portraits, and captivating abstracts, showcasing the creativity and talent of Australia’s diverse art community.
Celebrating NAIDOC Week with Keep the Fire Burning
During NAIDOC Week, we invited visitors to immerse themselves in the world’s oldest living culture while experiencing Keep the Fire Burning, an exhibition dedicated to celebrating and supporting the creative endeavours of Indigenous artists. The event began with a Welcome to Country and a smoking ceremony performed by Wurundjeri Elder Uncle Daniel Ross.
Wurundjeri Elder Uncle Daniel Ross performing a smoking ceremony at Bluethumb’s Richmond Gallery.
The exhibition showcased stunning artworks from Indigenous Art Centres, alongside sculptural creations by the talented Tjanpi Desert Weavers and artists from Maningrida and Marrawuddi Arts and Culture.
Painting Australian Artists a $50 Million Picture
This year, Bluethumb hit a major milestone, generating $50 million in revenue for Australian artists since its founding in 2012. Co-founded by brothers Ed and George Hartley, Bluethumb has transformed how art is sold in Australia by championing accessibility and empowering over 20,000 artists, from emerging creators to renowned figures. Read the full article featured in Forbes.
We Pledged To Sell Only Human-Made Artwork
In a world increasingly influenced by artificial intelligence, Bluethumb remains committed to championing the human touch in creativity. As AI reshapes industries and sparks ethical debates, our mission is to protect and celebrate the magic of human originality. With 95% of collectors and 75% of artists in our community voicing concerns about AI’s impact on creativity, we believe in safeguarding the unique, irreplaceable value of handmade art. Read the full article featured in Broadsheet.
We Launched a Podcast
Bluethumb took the leap into the world of podcasting with the launch of Art in My Home, our first-ever podcast celebrating the transformative power of art in everyday spaces. Hosted by Bluethumb Co-founder George Hartley and art enthusiast Amy Varley, the podcast invites listeners into the homes of surprising guests—from artists and interior designers to AFL players and reality TV stars—to explore the stories behind the art on their walls. Streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube, it inspires listeners to embrace creativity and rediscover the joy of surrounding themselves with art.
Your summer listening just got a whole lot better. Start listening today!
Exciting Feature Coming in 2025!
Get ready for Bluethumb’s most exciting feature yet! We’ve been working tirelessly behind the scenes to bring you Print on Demand, a game-changing addition to our platform. This launch will add tens of thousands of new products to the site, offering high-quality, custom prints that make collecting art more accessible than ever. Whether you’re an avid collector or a first-time buyer, Print on Demand will unlock endless possibilities to surround yourself with art you love—tailored to your space, style, and budget. Stay tuned for the release in 2025, as we take another step towards democratising art for everyone!
Thank you to our artists, collectors, trade clients and Indigenous Art Centres for your unwavering support. We wish you a safe and happy festive season and look forward to the new year.
