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The Red Tree is an exhibition of original artworks by Shaun Tan at Beinart Gallery, marking the 25th anniversary of his groundbreaking picture book of the same name.
Join our online preview list for early access to the artworks and pre-sales.
OPENING RECEPTION: Saturday, May 2nd, 5pm - 8pm. This is a free event.
The exhibition will run from May 3rd to May 24th, 2026.
BOOK SIGNING: Shaun Tan will be signing books at the gallery on Saturday, May 16th. Priority signing for visitors with small children or limited mobility will run from 10am to 11am, followed by general access from 11am to 2pm. A selection of Shaun’s books will be available for purchase. Due to expected demand, signings are limited to two books per person. This signing will be for books only, no prints, posters or other objects will be personalised or signed on the day.
A small girl wanders a street in the shadow of a colossal fish, a paper city erupts in senseless violence, a monster waits for a loaded dice, a tree grows in a bedroom. No names, no story, no message: nothing but a handful of words and a shifting landscape of unspoken feelings.
Original oil paintings from the book will be displayed alongside new works, sketches, and artist commentary reflecting on the creation and cultural influence of this enduring work, which has touched the lives of many since its release. A selection of the new artworks will be available for purchase.
First published in 2001, The Red Tree reflects a period of personal and cultural uncertainty, exploring negative emotions through displaced imagery and minimal text rather than conventional narrative. Its open, symbolic structure invites readers to find their own meanings, a quality that has allowed the work to resonate deeply with audiences of all ages over the past 25 years. This exhibition offers a rare opportunity to experience its imagery within the broader context of Shaun Tan’s ongoing practice, affirming the coexistence of darkness and hope, and positioning art as a space for recognition and connection rather than explanation.
Shaun Tan grew up in Perth and works as an artist, writer and filmmaker in Melbourne. He is best known for illustrated books that deal with social and historical subjects through dream-like imagery, such as The Arrival, The Red Tree and Tales from the Inner City. Tan is the recipient of an Academy Award for the short animated film The Lost Thing, the prestigious Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award in Sweden and the Kate Greenaway Medal in the UK.