Exhibition of Shire Collection at Manjimup Art Gallery
MEDIA RELEASE - Exhibition of Shire Collection at Manjimup Art Gallery
August 2016
The Shire of Manjimup Art Gallery, located within the Manjimup Public Library, is currently hosting an exhibition of the Shire of Manjimup collection as well as items that belong to the former Manjimup Art Society.
The Shire of Manjimup collection was founded upon a philanthropic donation of artworks by Sir Claude Hotchin, who donated an estimated number of 2000 paintings to approximately 14 public institutions throughout WA such as public galleries, Councils and most famously the Royal Perth Hospital and the University of Western Australia. In addition, the Shire has acquired two pieces through the annual Pemberton Arts Group art competition and exhibition, conducted as a part of Pemberton Unearthed.
Shire President Wade DeCampo expressed that he is really happy that the collection is being exhibited so that the community and visitors get to appreciate it. "We're really proud of the collection as it celebrates the important contribution of art in the community, whilst encouraging and appreciating local professional and amateur artists in our community."
"By displaying these works we're honouring Sir Hotchin's original intention behind gifting the artwork - to provide regional people with exposure to some of the best visual arts practices that occurred in WA at the time," explained Cr DeCampo. "His wish was to encourage enjoyment and participation in the arts, support for visual artists and to raise the general level of cultural appreciation of the audience."
"We've worked hard at presenting and preserving the collection over the years which leaves these pieces in a generally sound condition," added Cr DeCampo.
The exhibition also provides the community and visitors with the opportunity to view the works that were part of the former Manjimup Art Society, which are only displayed for special exhibitions such as this.
The exhibition is open at the Manjimup Library and Art Gallery until 23 September 2016. The Gallery is open Monday to Friday from 9:30 am until 4:30pm and on Saturday from 9am - 12pm (closed Sunday).
For further information on the gallery and upcoming exhibitions, please visit the Shire website via www.manjimup.wa.gov.au/artgallery
-ENDS-
Authorised by Andrew Campbell, Chief Executive Officer
Contact Gina Nieuwendyk, Coordinator Communication and Executive Support
Contact: 9771 7777
Contact for comment: Wade DeCampo, Shire President
Contact: 0427 094 081
