Artist In Residence: Josh McCall

Next date: Saturday, 11 April 2026 | 12:00 AM

In celebration of Youth Week 2026, Artist In Residence, Josh McCall brings fresh energy to the traditional craft of quilting.

Josh McCall is a young, self-taught quilter who learned by doing - experimenting with fabric, following curiosity, and figuring things out stitch by stitch. Working with both new and donated fabric, his focus is on creating and donating handmade quilts to vulnerable individuals across the Fraser Coast region.

These quilts offer more than warmth and comfort - they are “a hug they can keep,” helping recipients feel loved, valued, and less alone during times of hardship. Each piece becomes a tangible expression of human connection and compassion, restoring a sense of dignity and emotional security, particularly for those who have lost their belongings or are navigating unfamiliar or crisis situations.

Through creativity and dedication, Josh is helping bridge generational gaps by embracing a traditionally “older” craft and reimagining it as a tool for community care. His work also creates space for people of all ages to learn, connect, and share skills through quilting.

Josh will be upstairs in the Studio on the dates listed below and will also attend the Youth Makers Market on Saturday, 18 April 2026.

15 & 22 April 2026 | 10am to 1pm

MARYBOROUGH QUILTERS

In January 2025, Josh established Maryborough Quilters, a volunteer-run group dedicated to creating and donating quilts to people experiencing hardship across the Fraser Coast. In a short time, the group has already donated more than 50 quilts to local community organisations, including the Women’s Shelter, Oasis Crisis Support Space, the Senior Mental Health Unit (Maryborough), and the Fraser Coast Toy Run.

Every part of the process - from sourcing materials and designing quilt patterns to sewing, assembling, and distributing the finished quilts - is carried out entirely by dedicated volunteers. The group is built on generosity, shared skills, and the belief that small, handmade acts can make a meaningful difference.

Maryborough Quilters meet every Sunday from 12.30pm to 4.30pm at 571 Alice st Maryborough QLD (Unndennoo Kindy)