General News
27 June, 2024
Golden loan for gallery
While not all that glitters is gold, that can’t be said about the Central Goldfields Art Gallery’s (CGAG) latest display — which is shining brightly in Maryborough, after coming all the way from Canberra. Through a unique opportunity, the...
While not all that glitters is gold, that can’t be said about the Central Goldfields Art Gallery’s (CGAG) latest display — which is shining brightly in Maryborough, after coming all the way from Canberra.
Through a unique opportunity, the gallery’s treasures will, for the next two years, include beautiful colonial and contemporary gold jewellery from the National Gallery of Australia’s collection.
It is the latest loan under the Federal Government’s Sharing the National Collection initiative — and after launching yesterday, visitors will be able to see the 12 pieces on display at CGAG.
They include three contemporary works in gold and silver by Victorian jewellery designer Rowena Gough, a Maryborough local whose works are collected by major galleries across the country.
An intricate mid-19th century Australian goldfields brooch crafted by Godfrey and Abraham will also be on show, alongside several sparkling pieces of a similar vintage from unknown artists.
CGAG’s inclusion in the project was made possible owing to the efforts of the gallery’s staff.
“[We] submitted an expression of interest on behalf of Central Goldfield Shire’s art gallery to participate in the National Gallery of Australia’s Sharing the National Collection initiative when it was announced last year,” CGAG coordinator Helen Kaptein said.
“We were delighted that our gallery met the requirements and was accepted to participate in this national initiative.”
Each of the dozen pieces on display have local roots, and according to Ms Kaptein, showcasing them in Maryborough is a way for residents to feel that connection.
“It is extremely significant that the provenance or history of the 12 golden treasures on display all relate to Maryborough and surrounds,” she said.
“Nine of the artworks date from the mid 19th century goldrush here.
“These objects include earrings, brooches and a locket that were created as mementos by the lucky ones that struck gold.”
Ms Kaptein added that CGAG would not be considered for the initiative if it wasn’t for its $2 million redevelopment.
“As a result of the State Government along with Central Goldfield Shire Council’s investment in the redevelopment of the gallery we have met the environmental climate and display standards required to secure this loan of artworks from the National Gallery of Australia,” she said.
“These artworks will result in increased local knowledge and pride and ensure that we can present to display a diverse and wonderful program of artwork for our community and visitors to the gallery.”
Central Goldfields Shire Mayor Liesbeth Long said the works offer the Maryborough community and visitors the chance to look at this significant period in local history with new eyes.
“CGAG is a jewel in the crown of central Victoria. These artworks help us to understand and tell our story in new and rich ways,” she said.
“Great things do come in small sizes and the presentation of artworks on loan from the National Gallery of Australia, through the Sharing the National Collection program, is a golden moment for our region and not to be missed.”
Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke, said he was excited to see local galleries using pieces from the national collection to tell their own stories and histories.
“The national collection belongs to all Australians. Loans like this show how works held by the National Gallery have significance well beyond Canberra,” he said.
“Bringing works out of storage and into local galleries to be appreciated by new audiences and communities is what Sharing the National Collection is all about.”
