The Devonport Regional Gallery evolved from the inception of The Little Gallery, which was founded by Jean Thomas as a private enterprise in 1966.

Jean Thomas’ vision for the Gallery was as a centre for community arts and activities. Her aim was to promote Tasmanian artists and to provide an impartial program of appreciation with the inclusion of national and international exhibitions. She developed a complimentary project in the display and sale of fine wool, and woven and knitted products made by local craftswomen which not only helped support the gallery financially, but also promoted the recognition of one of Tasmania’s primary industries. The Little Gallery was situated in a weatherboard building behind the Baptist Church in Stewart Street, which was home to the Devonport Regional Gallery until 2018.