Namatjira to Now exhibition brings record attendance to Artspace Mackay

Artspace Mackay staff has been overwhelmed with visitors to its current shows, Namatjira to Now on show in the McAleese Gallery and Maelstrom, recent works by local artist Kelvyn Cunnington in the Artspace Mackay Foyer.

Namatjira to Now features four original Namatjira watercolour landscapes, an Archibald Prize-winning portrait of Namatjira as well a comprehensive selection of Indigenous artists involved in, and influenced by the Hermannsberg School art movement from the 1930s to present day.

In contrast, Mackay artist Kelvyn Cunnington’s first solo exhibition on show in the Artspace Mackay Foyer includes drawings, collage, mixed media and assemblage works which explore Kelvyn’s richly complex imaginings.

Namatjira to Now, a Queensland Art Gallery touring exhibition is easily one of the most popular exhibitions since Artspace Mackay’s inception in 2003.

Community Services and Facilities portfolio councillor Karen May said recently Artspace volunteers recorded an astounding 229 visitors in just one day.

“The exhibition opening celebrations attracted over 230 people, and we’ve had consistent visitor numbers to the gallery ever since,” she said.

Artspace staff have been delighted that the exhibition has attracted a large number of first-time visitors to experience the exhibition and Artspace Mackay for the very first time.

Cr May said the exhibition was a very big draw card for residents due the fact that Albert Namatjira was an Australian artist that many people in Queensland focused on during their schooling.

“Now in its final three weeks, we’re urging all members of Mackay and outlying areas to come and visit this popular exhibition,” she said

“It’s certainly one you won’t want to have missed.”

Namatjira to Now and Maelstrom are on show at Artspace Mackay until Sunday the 31 October 2010. Please contact Artspace Mackay for more information 4961 9722.

Contact: Melissa Dunn

Phone: 1300 MACKAY (1300 622 529)