On Friday 20 March, New England Regional Art Museum will open two new exhibitions: one, an artistic interpretation of the evolving landscape and the other sourced from an art-filled environment.
Tamworth artist Michelle Hungerford’s signature landscapes have taken a personal and emotional turn in her exhibition, The Change. Impacted directly by the drought and ensuing bushfires, Hungerford has depicted the smoke-obscured landscape in a serious of sombre but moving paintings. In contrast, time spent in the Kangaroo Valley invigorated Hungerford’s palette with luscious greens that contrasted with her dry and dusty home. Yet there is hope in the paintings that reflect the renewal that the recent rains have delivered. “Michelle’s work in this exhibition takes us on a journey, through troubling and optimistic times, reminding us that change can result in something positive and uplifting” said NERAM Curator Belinda Hungerford.
The second exhibition opening on Friday is the third in the popular Lounge Room Collector Series where works from a local private collection is opened up to the public. This edition features a selected of artworks from the collection from Angus and Caroline Nivison who reside at Yalgoolygum in Walcha. Angus, a well-known artist and his wife Caroline, an art teacher, have amassed a diverse and fascinating array of paintings, sculptures and prints. “The Lounge Room Collector series is one of the most popular exhibitions of the year” commented Rachael Parsons, NERAM Director. “People are naturally curious and love the opportunity to see what other people like to collect and we are so grateful to Angus and Caroline for their generous participation. We hope many people come along while the exhibition is on to have a look for themselves.”
While both exhibitions will open, as per the program schedule, the associated public programs, including the opening night event, have been postponed in response to current concerns connected to COVID-19.
“NERAM is open and is a safe space for people to come to and engage with art, and I encourage people to visit during our regular opening hours to see these two new exhibitions and our continuing programs,” said Rachael Parsons, NERAM Director. “We are taking recommended precautions to support the health and well-being of our community and visitors, which for now includes limiting public events.”
“We hope to resume our normal program as soon as possible and in the meantime are looking for opportunities for our audiences to engage with us on-line so that they have access to art and community during this difficult time. Keep an eye on our website and Facebook page for updates.”
The Change and Lounge Room Collector – Angus & Caroline Nivison, will run 20 March – 3 May 2020.
Image: Michelle Hungerford Dry Forest III 2020. acrylic and charcoal on linen.
