Gallery to celebrate creativity

SWAN Hill Regional Art Gallery is set to put the “art” in party when it hosts its gala dinner and art auction in October.

The event will offer a night of fine dining, entertainment and the chance to take home original works from some of Australia’s most celebrated and emerging artists.

Among the highlights are paintings by Graeme Drendel, whose realistic and meditative style has earned him a place in the National Gallery of Australia and who won the 2022 Doug Moran Portrait Prize.

Guests can also bid on socially charged assemblages by Glenn Morgan, a renowned artist represented in all major state galleries, and works by Matthew Clarke, a finalist in the Archibald, Sulman and Wynne Prizes.

Local creativity will also shine, with contributions from First Nations artist Kenita-Lee McCartney, Swan Hill weaver and educator Suzanne Connelly-Klidomitis, and ceramicist Liz Maddy, whose dramatic pit-fired vessels already feature in the Gallery’s permanent collection.

Gallery director Ian Tully said the Saturday, October 4 event is about much more than raising funds.

“This evening is a chance to celebrate creativity and the generosity of artists who support the gallery and the wider community,” he said.

“By bidding, you’re not just purchasing original art, you’re contributing to the legacy of the gallery’s collection, ensuring it continues to grow and inspire for generations.”

Mr Tully said the event underlines the role art plays in enriching community life.

“Art brings people together, sparks conversation and enriches our sense of place,” he said.

“Nights like this remind us how vital culture is to community life.”

Swan Hill Rural City Mayor Cr Stuart King said the timing of the auction could not be better, with construction of the new gallery now underway.

“There’s a real sense of momentum and anticipation in the community,” Cr King said.

“This auction supports the expansion of the collection that will be showcased in a world-class facility, ensuring we’re ready to open the doors with an even stronger cultural offering for the whole region.”

Guests will be welcomed to Swan Hill Town Hall with canapés and complimentary drinks on arrival before sitting down to a two-course meal.

The evening will be hosted by comedian and emcee Alyce Fisher, with a local auctioneer bringing energy to the bidding as artworks go under the hammer.

Tickets are $120 per person and can be purchased through the town hall website.

Cocktail attire is encouraged, with drinks available at bar prices.

The event begins at 6.30pm.