Friday Night Sounds brings Justine Eltakchi to Newcastle Art Gallery
Your Friday night plans just got a serious creative upgrade.
Every last Friday of the month, Newcastle Art Gallery is turning up the volume on its late-night gallery experience, bringing some of the country’s most exciting performers and DJs into the space for Friday Night Sounds.
Running from 5pm to 8pm, the monthly series pairs after-hours art with live music, relaxed social vibes, and a soundtrack worthy of easing you into the weekend.
In July the Gallery welcomes Australian songwriter, recording artist and disability advocate Justine Eltakchi.
Justine's work spans contemporary Australian music, songwriting, performance and industry leadership.
Across a decade-long career, she has contributed to internationally released recordings, Eurovision and television projects, and artist development while building a body of work centred on authentic storytelling, identity and resilience within the Australian music industry.
Following the recent release of her debut album BIG DREAM BABY, which debuted at #7 on the ARIA Australian Albums charts and #2 on the AIR charts, Justine is entering a significant new chapter in her artistic career.
The album’s success reflects not only years of sustained independent creative work, but also the growing cultural resonance of her storytelling and artistic voice, as she explores themes of belonging, womanhood and Australian identity.
Friday Night Sounds
When: Friday 31 July
Time: 5pm–8pm
Where: Newcastle Art Gallery, 1 Laman St, Cooks Hill
Cost: Free
Whether you’re there for the music, the art, or simply a different kind of Friday night out, Friday Night Sounds is quickly becoming one of Newcastle’s best new monthly rituals.
Sketch Club after dark
Alongside the music, Sketch Club is launching after-hours inside Newcastle Art Gallery.
Running from 5:30pm to 7:30pm, the session offers a relaxed, social drawing experience led by art facilitators, with creative prompts designed to help you see the space in a new way.
Whether you’re a regular sketcher or just keen to try something different, all materials are provided – just bring yourself (and leave charcoal and pastels at home).
A drink on arrival sets the tone, before you explore Newcastle Art Gallery through drawing, observation, and a fresh perspective. Places for Sketch Club are limited, with bookings essential, and it’s best suited for ages 16 and over.
Time: 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Cost: $55 - bookings essential.
If you're looking for a low-key way to start your weekend or a cute date night – with music, creativity and a glass in hand – this is one to lock in.
To learn more about Friday Night Sounds and Sketch Club, visit Newcastle Art Gallery.
This article was produced by HUNTERhunter in partnership with Newcastle Art Gallery. Thank you for supporting the partners who make HUNTERhunter possible.
