Latest exhibition all about home

BENDIGO Art Gallery has opened the doors to its latest exhibition entitled Australiana: Designing a Nation which takes a look at the history of art and design in Australia.

The exhibit is an exclusive in partnership with the National Gallery of Victoria and includes more than 200 works.

Bendigo Art Gallery curator Emma Busowski said it was an exciting time for the gallery and art fans.

“This is a really great opportunity to look at Australian art through the eyes of our artists and designers,” she said.

“People should expect a big exhibition that covers ten gallery spaces and covers a huge expanse of time. It begins in the 18th century and comes right through to today.”

Ms Busowski said the exhibit was a display of Australian culture and lifestyle.

“You see the artists are using local materials and local motifs,” she said. “The artworks reflect on our culture and on our humour.”

“There are beautifully made works and there are a lot of very funny works as well, so it really speaks to what we value as Australians and how we reflect upon ourselves.”

There are works by some of Australia’s most renowned artists like Ken Done, Tony Albert, Margaret Preston and Albert Namatjira as well as fashion houses including Romance was Born.

One unique display was put together by Melbourne artist Kenny Pittock and he said he hopes it takes people back to their childhood.

“It’s 100 ceramic ice creams from the 70s, 80s, 90s and today, like a hit radio station,” he said.

“I tried to make it so everyone’s favourite would be in here somewhere, just like mine and hopefully yours.

“I like that with all these ice creams when people see them, they can bring their own memories to them as well.”

To coincide with the exhibition the City of Bendigo and Bendigo Tourism has developed a program called Fair Dinkum Bendigo – A Taste of Culture.

The program will feature events, tours, food creations and retail products.

Australiana: Designing a Nation is open now at the Bendigo Art Gallery and is free to attend.