IN 1956, the Swan Hill Show captured the attention of Russian-born modernist painter Danilla Vasillieff.
Now, his painting Showground visitors – Swan Hill has made its way home.
The painting has joined the Swan Hill Regional Art Gallery’s permanent collection thanks to a donation from Reg and Lucia Packer.
“Reg and Lucia are long-time supporters of both the Swan Hill Show and the gallery,” gallery director Ian Tully said.
“It was generous of them to make this donation and so fitting given their connection to both groups.
“The piece fits beautifully within our permanent collection, being from a significant Australian painter such as Vasillieff and having such strong ties to our local area.”
Danilla Vasillieff emigrated to Australia in 1923 and became an identity in the circle of artists based in and around John and Sunday Reed’s home Heide, now the Heide Museum of Modern Art.
Other artists of that time included Sydney Nolan, Albert Tucker, Joy Hester and John Percival.
Vasillieff is considered a father figure to these Australian modernists.
In 1955/56 Mr Vasillieff taught at Swan Hill High School and continued to paint while living here.
It was during this time that he painted Showground visitors – Swan Hill.
His work is represented in most major Australian galleries including the National Gallery of Australia, National Gallery of Victoria, Heide Museum of Modern Art, and now Swan Hill Regional Art Gallery.
Showground visitors – Swan Hill and other work from the gallery’s permanent collection are part of an exhibition on until January 30.
