For almost 30 years, Monte Lupo has been producing beautiful ceramic and textile homewares and artwork, and is beloved in the Brisbane and Queensland arts scene.
Established by disability support provider Multicap, Monte Lupo employs artists with disability who each play a part in creating every piece that leaves the studio: from unloading materials from delivery trucks, preparing the clay, glazing and painting each piece, to selling finished pieces.
The studio has gained acclaim and residency at numerous galleries and exhibitions across the state, and even features on the second “B” of the Brisbane sign at South Bank, one of the city’s most photographed locations.
About the artists & workshops
Sixteen artists currently work at the studio, handcrafting everything from mosaic tiles, salad bowls and teacups to garden planters, paintings and large sculptures – all in a vibrant, joyful and whimsical style.
The Monte Lupo brand has expanded over the years to now encompass the fit-for-purpose art studio, two gallery cafés, three coffee carts, an online shop, and even ceramic workshops where members of the public can create their own unique masterpiece.
The Monte Lupo studio and flagship gallery café sit among a leafy setting at Eight Mile Plains, with the gardens and alfresco dining area bejewelled with mosaicked tables and pieces created by the artists from years gone by. All are created in the signature vibrant and unique Monte Lupo style.
It’s a style that has developed since the studio was established in 1991 by Multicap to provide meaningful employment to people living with disability, after the organisation identified there was a lack of suitable employment and career opportunities for its customers.
Own your own unique Monte Lupo artwork!
Monte Lupo has just launched an online shop giving everyone the chance to own their own piece of the Monte Lupo story, no matter their location. Over 500 pieces, from spoons to sculptures, are available for purchase online with Australia-wide shipping options.
Fiona Haynes is General Manager of Creative Arts at Multicap and has worked at the organisation for more than 20 years. She said the new shop was an exciting step in promoting the incredible work of artists.
“Monte Lupo has a wonderful reputation and following, thanks to our local history and partnerships with galleries and exhibitions in Queensland. It’s really exciting that we can promote our artists and their work even further, and we have already received orders from across the country.
“It’s a great time to support local businesses, particularly those like Monte Lupo that employ and support people with disability.
“Not only will you have a beautiful new piece for your home, but you’ll also be supporting people with disability across Queensland and northern New South Wales,” Fiona said.
How Multicap helps
Operating since 1962, Multicap is one of the most highly regarded disability service providers in Queensland and northern New South Wales, specialising in high and complex needs. Their services span a range of areas, including home and well-being, community and lifestyle, education and employment, creative arts, transport, positive behaviour support, and much more.
Multicap and Monte Lupo both work with an ethos of supporting people with disability and their circles of support to enhance their quality of life, through services and programs that assist them to reach their goals and live their lives with possibility and opportunity.
Visit www.multicap.org.au to find out more about Monte Lupo and Multicap. Find out more about how Multicap helps people with disability here.
