Get ready to cosy up to some acclaimed artwork, as Geraldton Regional Art Gallery opens two new exhibitions this weekend.

The two touring exhibitions aim to bring access to national and cultural artworks to regional Australia, with a range of forms and history on display.

One of the country’s most prestigious prizes, the National Photographic Portrait Prize 2025, will showcase portrait photos from across Australia.

The exhibition is now in its 18th year, and has selected 48 artworks out of more than 1400 applicants.

Sharing the space will be Howard Taylor: Material Practice, featuring works from the life of the acclaimed WA painter and potter.

Based in WA and England throughout his life, Taylor’s work highlights the natural environment through use of light and form.

This exhibition looks at his evolution as an artist, which culminated in recognition from the WA Government, which named him a State living treasure in 1998 and citizen of the year in 2000.

City of Greater Geraldton mayor Jerry Clune encouraged the community to head down to the gallery to see the “broad and unique” storytelling.

“Hosting collections of this calibre gives our community access to nationally significant artworks right here in Geraldton,” he said.

“With such a wonderful array of perspectives and experiences, it is hard not to be moved.”

Art lovers and curious community members are welcome to the opening of the new exhibitions on Saturday.

The opening-day event will run from 10-11.30am, followed by a talk from Emma Bitmead, who curated Howard Taylor: Material Practice.

The exhibitions will run from Saturday to September 13.