Griffith Regional Art Gallery Seeks Input For Upcoming Community Exhibition

Griffith Regional Art Gallery has announced the theme of its 2024 community art exhibition - The Fruits of Labour: Celebrating 100 Years of Irrigation Research and the CSIRO.

The exhibition will run from September 21 to November 3, 2024, offering locals an opportunity to engage with heritage and creativity.

Community members are invited to take part in the project, which aims to honour the legacy of irrigation research and the CSIRO (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation) in Griffith over the past century.

Artists from across the Western Riverina and beyond are invited to interpret the theme of “Fruits of Labour” in their unique ways. Gallery Coordinator Ray Wholohan emphasised the significance of community involvement.

“Our community exhibition is an important part of our annual program and we relish the opportunity to give the exhibition a theme that is meaningful to the greater Griffith community,” Mr Wholohan said.

“We encourage local artists to explore this theme and showcase their talent in celebrating the CSIRO’s enduring impact on our region.”

In addition to the artistic component, the exhibition will feature a curated collection of historical materials, documents, photography, and multimedia, curated in collaboration with local research scientist, Dr Barrie Steer.

Dr Steer, who worked for the CSIRO in the 1970s and 80s highlighted the exhibition’s aim to celebrate the vibrant community of researchers and innovators who contributed to Griffith’s scientific heritage.

As part of this endeavour, the Gallery is seeking the support of former employees and their families to contribute significant relics or materials that could enrich the exhibition’s narrative.

Dr Steer reflected on the profound sense of camaraderie within the CSIRO community, envisioning the exhibition as a tribute to its enduring legacy.

Dr Steer reflected on the sentiment of the project.

“Most people who worked at CSIRO Griffith have happy memories of the station as a friendly and busy workplace with an active social life, within a diverse and international community,” Dr Steer said.

“It is our intention to bring this important community of researchers and innovators to prominence in this exhibition.”

Artists and patrons of the Gallery eager to contribute to this important community exhibition are encouraged to reach out to Griffith Regional Art Gallery.

The exhibition is also proudly supported by Griffith Pioneer Park Museum and the Gallery’s wine sponsor Dee Vine Estate.

Gallery hours are 10 am to 5 pm Wednesday to Friday and 11 am to 2 pm at weekends.

Contact Griffith Regional Art Gallery at gallery@griffith.nsw.gov.au or call 02 6962 3883 for more information about the exhibition.

Alternatively, direct inquiries to Dr Barrie Steer at garste2@optusnet.com.au.

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• Arts and Media