Brushmen of the Bush Art Exhibition

SPECIAL PROJECT “BRUSHMEN OF THE BUSH” ART EXHIBITION

A feasibility study was carried out in early 1988 out to see if an art show was viable in the area of Coburg and Pascoe Vale. The response was positive.

Following the Rotary Club approach to the Coburg City Council, the Council expressed interest in supporting an art show and agreed to the use of the City Hall in Bell Street, free of charge.The Council also granted access to Staff and all other amenities.

A committee was formed and approaches were made to the Coburg and Associated Arts and Crafts group to see if they were interested in assisting the Rotary Club with the Art Show.

As we wished to have an upmarket Art Show, contact was made with Elders Fine Arts in Adelaide. Elders was able to give an assurance that an original list of paintings featuring Pro Hart, Jack Absolom and John Guy, among others, Ninety per cent of the artworks were on display for the first time in Australia.

Being our bicentennial year, an application was submitted via the Coburg Community Bicentennial Committee for a grant to assist in the running of an Art Show as a cultural activity in Coburg. The application was successful. The Rotary Club received a plaque in recognition.

The Rotaract Club of Pascoe Vale was also approached to assist on the Official Preview Night. The Rotaract members excelled themselves.

Mr Murray Gavin, Mayor of the City of Coburg, welcomed all present at the Official Preview on Friday 15th April. Also present were many of the City Councillors and friends.

On the Saturday 16 April 1988, we were privileged to have the Prime Minster of Australia, the Right Honourable RJ Hawke, officially open the Art Show.

Committee members:
Councillor Paul Huckin
Secretary: Bruno D’Aprano Rotarians:
Rock Pinder
Bill Jagger
Noel Colliver

Thanks to Les Hargreaves for the lighting, Rotarians and partners and friends.

Chairman, Frank Drever