Golden artworks on display

A COLLECTION of works about experiences during the goldrush has opened at the Art Gallery of Ballarat.

Titled Upheaval on the Goldfields, the exhibition looks at life in the area including social and environmental issues of the time.

It’s a joint project between gallery curator Julie McLaren and artist educator Pauline O’Shannessy-Dowling with works from artists such Sidney Nolan, Eugene von Guerard, and Marlene Gilson.

“This exhibition is works from the gallery’s own collection which tells the story of upheaval and disruption that happened in Ballarat as a result of the goldrush,” said Ms McLaren.

The pieces reveal artists depictions of this time of change which had an influx of settlers and the infamous Eureka Stockade.

“It also looks the fact that the gallery we stand it today stands on Wadawurrung country and that before the goldrush and colonisation this land was populated by the Wadawurrung people,” said Ms McLaren.

The exhibition is a “transhistorical hang” which means works old and new are displayed alongside each other and Ms McLaren said she hopes the style can spark new conversations extending to younger people.

O’Shannessy-Dowling has made labels for the space which are targeted at a younger audience to allow children and families to be involved.

“Those labels just remind young people and families that the exhibition is for them to, and they have important knowledge and life experiences they can bring to the art world,” she said.

The Art Crate is also on site which has a craft activity related to the exhibition where people can get involved.

Upheaval on the Goldfields is a free exhibition on display until Sunday, 13 August.