An Artist-Led Gallery Model Rooted in Reciprocity and Care

Romulus Folio is an artist-led gallery and evolving arts hub that centres connection, experimentation, and integrity. Founded by artist-in-residence, Angelina Mirabito, the space operates on the belief that art is not separate from life but essential to how we process complexity, beauty, grief, and collective experience.

Since its inception, Romulus has developed a rhythm of monthly exhibitions and programs that are deeply responsive to the artists and communities it serves. This model supports sustained creative inquiry and makes space for ongoing conversations and exploration rather than fixed outcomes.

Romulus does not follow a traditional hierarchical gallery structure. Exhibiting artists are never charged a fee, and we do not take commission on sales. Instead, the gallery invites a spirit of contribution, through generosity, presence, and cultural engagement.

This model works in the current setup. It reflects the values of our community and fits the practical realities of being housed within an artist residency. It allows the founding artist to exhibit and share the space in alignment with our responsibilities, while making many logistical and time-based factors sustainable.

Romulus Folio has evolved thanks to the vital support of The Gladstone and FB IDEAS. Their support enables the gallery to operate as a dynamic cultural site, one that prioritises inclusion and creative risk-taking.

Day-to-day logistics and event delivery are supported by a small, collaborative team, with Scott Ross assisting in key community-facing roles. Leadership and curatorial direction are guided by Angelina Mirabito, with programming shaped through collective care and artist-centred decision making.

More than a gallery, Romulus functions as a living space for intercultural connection and dialogue. In June, the Weaving Three Circles workshop brought together First Nations artists and community members to share stories through fibre and weaving practice. This August, a Celtic-led, ‘Returning to Roots,’ workshop will invite participants to reconnect with ancestry and creative embodiment.

Romulus continues to build programs that honour heritage, complexity, and connection, affirming the role of art as a form of truth-telling, repair, and belonging.

In September, the gallery will present a local artist’s body of work in an exhibition Romulus is very proud to have and looking forward to sharing more details with you soon.