Women’s Work II: from the Muswellbrook Collections
11 January to 15 March 2025
In celebration of women’s creative contributions, the second installment of ‘Women’s Work’ highlights a further six inspiring women artists from the Muswellbrook collections – Marion Borgelt, Judy Cassab, Suzie Marston, Naata Nungurrayi, Caroline Southcombe and Lezlie Tilley.
Showcasing the diverse practices and legacies of these trailblazing women, the exhibition continues the dialogue on the transformative power of women’s work in shaping history and culture. Through their art, they have challenged norms, shared stories, and enriched Australia’s cultural fabric.
Swallow the Rain: Patricia Casey
11 January to 24 May 2025
Following a diagnosis with a painful chronic illness, Casey was forced to redefine both her life and her art. During this time of loss and adaptation, daily walks in nature became her anchor, offering moments of reflection and connection. Drawing on Merleau-Ponty’s concept of ‘lived body experience’, Casey’s ongoing work explores the interconnectedness of humanity and the natural world. Her work in ‘Swallow the Rain’ captures fleeting beauty -wild weeds, shifting light – preserving these moments in ice. These glowing, jewel-like creations serve as meditations on resilience, transformation, and the profound bond between people and nature.
Summer Studio: Todd Fuller and Max Watters
24 October 2024 to 15 March 2025
In 2020, following the passing of Max Watters, artist Todd Fuller embarked on a residency to explore and honour Max’s life and artistic legacy. Through interviews with Muswellbrook locals and a digital residency with the Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre, Fuller delved into the profound impact Max had on the region’s artistic community and cultural landscape. Max Watters, a beloved figure in Muswellbrook, was known for his paintings of rural houses and for his efforts to foster art and culture in the Upper Hunter.
In this first edition of Summer Studio, visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the displayed works, reflecting on the themes presented by both Max and Todd, while contributing their own experiences to a collaborative artwork within the exhibition space.
Drop in to participate at any time. All materials and instructions provided. All ages and skill levels are welcome, and no experience is necessary. Children under 12 must be supervised by an adult at all times.
Image: Todd Fuller, ‘Working, Plein Air ‘ 2020, acrylic, charcoal, and chalk on paper, 57 x 75cm, Muswellbrook Shire Art Collection, Donated through the Australian Government’s Cultural Gifts Program by the Artist.
Our Place: 100 Years of Martindale Public School
24 October 2024 to 15 March 2025
Nestled in the foothills of the Wollemi National Park and forked by two creeks, a community were successful in appealing for a permanent school 100 years ago. Land was donated and Martindale school was built.
“Our place is special and gives a sense of belonging and identity. Knowledge leads us to understand that ‘our place’ though, can be anywhere we feel connected to, or drawn to its uniqueness. From the security of our home, our school, our creatures and their surrounds that we see or aspire to see, our community, our state, our country, our world, and all that means to us.” – Sharon Rivers, Principal, Martindale Public School.
To celebrate our 100 years of Martindale Public school, students were encouraged to create artworks that reflected what ‘our place’ means to them.
Muswellbrook Regional Art Centre
1-3 Bridge Street, Muswellbrook
Monday-Saturday, 10am – 4pm
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Images:
Left: Patricia Casey, ‘Still Life With Weed 04’ 2024, metallic photographic print on acrylic, 70 x 70cm.
Right Top: Lezlie Tilley, ‘Landscape Quilt – Dubai Winter’ 2000, mixed media on hardboard panels, 122 x 179cm, Muswellbrook Shire Art Collection, Winner, Muswellbrook Open Art Prize 2000.
Right Bottom: Todd Fuller, ‘Working, Plein Air ‘ 2020, acrylic, charcoal, and chalk on paper, 57 x 75cm, Muswellbrook Shire Art Collection, Donated through the Australian Government’s Cultural Gifts Program by the Artist.
Images and media release courtesy of the MRAC.