Historical art to take centre stage at Collie Art Exhibition

Collie Art Gallery is set to host another prestigious art exhibition with historical significance as part of a regional touring program from the Art Gallery of WA.

The Antipodean Manifesto art exhibition features a selection of paintings, prints and ceramics by the seven artists who formed the Antipodean group in Melbourne.

Charles Blackman, Arthur Boyd, David Boyd, John Brack, Robert Dickerson, John Perceval, and Clifton Pugh held a single exhibition at the Victorian Artists Society in August 1959.

The Antipodean Manifesto was written by art historian and fellow group member Bernard Smith, signed by him and the exhibiting artists, and features in the exhibition’s catalogue.

The manifesto stated the artists were opposed to non-figurative art, and recognisable images were the basis of painting.

Now touring, the exhibition explores the formation and aspirations of the group, situating their work within the social and political context of late 1950s Australia.

Associate curator of historical art Emma Bitmead said the program aimed to make art more accessible in regional areas.

“It’s a big push in what we are trying to do. AGWA is ramping up our regional touring program,” she said.

“Collie will actually be the first venue for the tour. We’re really at a starting point for this particular exhibition and this next chapter for touring.

“What we’re really wanting to do is offer something of real value to those communities so that they don’t have to travel to Perth.”

The exhibits will be on display Thursday to Monday, 10am to 4pm, until June 23 at the Collie Art Gallery.