Originally blooming from a Melbourne-based architect’s idea, Mon Abri first took shape within the pre-demoliton shell of a residential home. The original 120-year-old house was due to be developed into four apartments when the developer, a patron of the arts, got on board and as the story goes, Mon Abri was born. A crew of local artists was assembled and each creator was given a room to run wild with. From there, the concept has continued to evolve and, leveraging more architectural sites to inform and reshape with experiential exhibitions, providing an alternative to clinical white-walled art exhibitions.

Mon Abri – meaning ‘my shelter’ in French – is exclusively held in spaces with architectural significance. While previously Mon Abri has hosted two Brisbane-based events, this will be the first Gold Coast installation. The unique space for the Gold Coast iteration of the event is the iconic Sunhouse building in Coolangatta, which was also the site of the first ever KFC on the coast (a true landmark). Not only does the pop-up offer local artists a platform to reach a wider audience in the local community, Mon Abri attendees can enter for free and also have the opportunity to buy pieces on display. Gold Coast art-lovers can check out the ingenious event, which will showcase local talent for ten days, from September 10.