Visitors glad for Gallery return

BALLARAT’S own Art Gallery has reopened after its three-month long closure.

Visitors are advised to book through the online system to secure a time slot and peruse the works.

A new entrance to the space is located on Police Lane and conditions of entry such as sanitising hands have been put in place to ensure the safety of those attending.

The Gallery’s director Louise Tegart hopes the changes made to the gallery won’t impact people’s experiences.

“Being able to come and go when you want has changed and now it’s a bit more exclusive.

“Hopefully it’s not too different and people are excited about coming back,” she said.

Along with a myriad of other Ballarat businesses, the Art Gallery took this opportunity to do some building works.

Ms Tegart said it was the perfect time for renovations while not open to the public.

“We’ve been painting the foyer, re-hanging the staircase and working on our building management system to keep the temperature and humidity controlled,” she said.

The Gallery is currently showing two exhibitions, the first of which contains works from Ballarat-born artist David Noonan.

The exhibit, titled Stagecraft, featuring his signature moody black and white collages and tapestries was highly anticipated by the public.

“A lot of people have been wanting to see the David Noonan exhibition because it was only open for three days before we closed.

Given his local connection and his international stature, it’s a show that people really want to see,” Ms Tegart said.

The second exhibition, Strange Ways, displays the modernist sombre paintings of Melbourne-based artist Anne Wallace.

The Gallery’s marketing and programs officer Peter Freund said visitors have responded positively to both the current offerings.

“People are really struck about the timing of the shows because one is dark and shadowy and the other one depicts a lot people who are isolated,” he said.

Although the permanent collection will be closed until September for works to continue, gallery frequenters can look forward to four new exhibits opening on 1 August.

“Three of these exhibitions are actually by local artists so that will generate a lot of local interest,” Ms Tegart said.