Blue Mountains News

The exhibition reveals some hidden gems from Council’s art and ceramics collection, acquired or donated to Council over the past 50 years.

While some prominent local artist’s names and signature styles may be familiar to local historians and art lovers, including John Barnes, Walter Brunner, Robert Cunningham, Stanley Ballard, Helen Hudson, Margaret Hunt, Maria Finnegan and Rick Slaven, others are less well known, but equally compelling.

As the Mayor Maree Statham observed at the preview opening event, “This delightful exhibition provides a snapshot of how our region has changed and evolved over the years and continues to attract and inspire new generations of talented artists and craftspeople”.

“I remember when many of these iconic pieces were purchased at the annual Portland Art Exhibition over the years, others were donated by prominent local families, some are a mystery and I would love to know more about the story behind the scenes,” said the Mayor.

“The community are encouraged to pop into the Visitor Information Centre, have a wander through the collection and take a few moments to write down your observations, recollections and feelings about one of the artworks to be included in the Local Stories Selection Highlights at conclusion of the exhibition.

The gallery is located downstairs at the Seven Valleys Tourist Information Centre, 1137 Great Western Highway Lithgow, and is open during regular opening hours, 9.00am – 5.00pm, 7 days a week.