Welcome to Broome Gallery, home of contemporary Kimberley Artist James Down
Taking you back to where it all began...
James Down is a self-taught contemporary artist, based in the Kimberley region for the past two decades.
He is known for his deep love for the region which is reflected in his vibrant artworks from realism to whimsical styles which capture the essence of the Kimberley, making him a notable figure in the Australian art scene.
His works now hanging on countless walls across Australia and overseas.
James Down grew up in a small rural Victorian town called Mortlake. At the age of 16, in the late 1970’s, he moved to Melbourne to secure an apprenticeship in sign writing, only to be told to “forget it buddy you haven’t got it”.
This made him more determined than ever to succeed and was the beginning of his journey to become a master of the arts, learning the hard way and training himself.
James moved to Perth for the ‘America Cup’ in 1986, as a sign writer on the yachts.
This is where he met Shez. It wasn’t long before they started a sign business of their own.
James had also picked up architectural drawings by hand and tested his skills by building a couple of houses.
James was more passionate about the art so a Chalk Board side of the business was developed and quickly took off.
James was soon contracted by a major hotel chain to do all the pub boards.
This is where Broome came into the story, with James traveling to the remote town for work.
Both James and Shez instantly fell in love with the colours and scenery and it wasn’t long till they packed up their family, including their daughter Emily, two dogs, and worldly possessions, and made the move to Broome.
They jumped straight in, buying an existing gallery that had around 50 artists on board but was in much need of a revamp.
Within two years James and Shez had the business cranking, proving they could adapt to anything they applied themselves to.
After selling the Monsoon Gallery, James aspired to have his gallery and display his work. Here began the Broome Gallery. Initially in a small shop before relocating to the perfect spot in the heart of Chinatown, where she sits today.
Now selling works worldwide and being on Broome’s ‘To Do’ list, Broome Gallery has grown into a significant attraction which offers an immersive experience into James Downs’ artistic world.
In late 2023, James and Shez decided to step aside from the Gallery, moving back to Perth and passed the reins to Pete and Tash to take the Broome Gallery to the next chapter of its exciting life.
Pete and Tash moved to Broome in early 2020.
Initially a two-year country posting for WA Police, they became hooked on Broome and it’s amazing lifestyle, extending their posting.
Four years later they both resigned and whisperings began with James and Shez about the Broome Gallery.
A connection had already been forged between parties with a shared love of animals and another special rescue dog in Broome.
A bit about our story
Pete grew up surfing the beaches of Queensland and traveled around the world looking for his purpose. In 1994 he found that purpose and served his country in the army. Over a decade later Pete left the army and opened a surf shop in Perth. His skills then landed him a management position traveling around the globe in the oil and gas industry. Looking for more excitement he gave up the big bucks and joined the WA Police force.
Tash spent her childhood upside down in the pool thinking she was a mermaid. She competed for the USA and Great Britain in synchronised swimming. Eventually drying, off she studied psychology and worked in research for many years. Wanting the next challenge Tash joined the WA Police force.
Pete and Tash met in the surf shop becoming a blended family with six kids in the mix. The move to Broome was initially just Pete and Tash, however, Broome has also become home to some of the family and there is a constant stream of visitors.
The next chapter for Broome gALLERY
Continuing James’s legacy, not too much will change in the gallery. James will continue painting and several exhibitions are being planned.
