Jump Left launches I Ain’t No Fancy Bird, a new exhibition of personal yet flamboyant works by local Naarm (Melbourne) artist Maya Tamang. Opening Thursday 23 July 2026, 6–8 pm.
Maya Tamang's I Ain't No Fancy Bird is the culmination of her recent studio practice, an exhibition which focuses on deeply felt portraits of people who are inspirational and important to her. Drawing from classic Hollywood, her paintings channel the playfulness, flamboyance, expressiveness, and exuberance of that era, characteristics similarly personified by her chosen sitters and cultural icons. This exciting new exhibition demonstrates Tamang's commitment to her practice and significant artistic accomplishments to date.
"This is a deeply emotional and personal show for me. My art is a way to express myself and escape from a harsh world. My work is a mix of fun, flamboyance, camp and emotional pieces, and I Ain't No Fancy Bird is a fun, fashionable and bold exhibition with references to old Hollywood. I hope people will feel inspired and connected to my work. It is important to me to create inclusive artistic spaces, to build a professional career, and be visible. I also want to empower and inspire younger female artists."
—Maya Tamang
Maya Tamang, Reuben, 2026, acrylic, oil and pastel on canvas, 101 × 101 cm
EXHIBITION DETAILS
Launch Event
Thursday 23 July, 6-8pm
Open House Melbourne
Coinciding with Open House Melbourne
24-26 July 2026, 10am-5pm daily
Exhibition
24 July - 29 August 2026
Free | Accessible | All welcome
Hours
Tuesday - Friday 11am-4pm
Saturday 11am-3pm
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Maya Tamang
Maya Tamangis an early-career, primarily self-taught artist based in Naarm/Melbourne. Her work draws on personal experience — including living with autism and past trauma — alongside a passionate engagement with camp humour and bold, theatrical aesthetics. Tamang's paintings are energised by a desire to inspire and connect with audiences, bringing a mixture of rawness, honesty, vulnerability and humour to her direct approach and attitude. Tamang has exhibited in numerous solo and group exhibitions in Naarm/Melbourne.
Access
Jump Left is located on the ground floor of Donkey Wheel House. The project space is situated towards the rear and can be accessed via the main entrance (with a single shallow step) or through the side entrance, conveniently positioned to the right of the main entrance in Godfrey Street.
Free | Accessible Venue | All welcome
