Collaborative exhibition to be unveiled

ALMOST Here, Almost Now is a new exhibition that draws on the collections of both The Riddoch and the National Gallery of Australia and it is opening this Friday night at 6pm.

On view from Saturday, June 21 to Sunday, August 24, the exhibition brings together major works by Australian artists to explore questions of identity, belonging, and our evolving relationship with land and sky.

Riddoch Arts and Cultural Centre Director Ashleigh Whatling said The Riddoch was delighted to collaborate with the National Gallery of Australia’s Regional Initiatives Program to bring this exhibition to life, recognising the national significance of our own collection alongside works from the NGA.

“We are proud to present an original exhibition that celebrates and explores both publicly-owned collections in a fresh and exciting context,” she said.

Spanning generations and artistic practices – from ancient to contemporary, and imagined futures – Almost Here, Almost Now invites viewers to consider the deep time of space alongside the deep time of Earth. Works by artists such as Jeffrey Smart, Emily Kam Kngwarray, Fiona Hall, and Shaun Gladwell trace connections between the celestial and the terrestrial.

Riddoch curator Chris Clements said bringing together works from their own collection with pieces from the National Gallery of Australia was a remarkable opportunity for Mount Gambier.

“It allows us to present a dialogue between place and perspective and underscores the vital role that regional galleries play in connecting communities with the broader national story,” Chris said. “We’re incredibly proud to offer local audiences access to works of such depth, complexity, and beauty.”

Bookings are essential for this Friday’s official 6pm exhibition opening via The Riddoch Arts and Cultural Centre on (08)8721 2563 or email [email protected]

The Riddoch Arts and Cultural Centre is open from 10am to 5pm weekdays and 10am to 2pm weekends and most public holidays. Entry is free. For more information visit theriddoch.com.au

The presentation of works of art from Australia’s national collection is made possible with the support of MM Electrical Merchandising through the National Gallery of Australia’s Regional Initiatives Program.