Landmark bequest celebrated in new exhibition at Maitland Regional Art Gallery

Maitland Regional Art Gallery (MRAG) will unveil a new exhibition, 9.5 The Elliott Eyes Bequest, from 14 June to 2 November 2025, celebrating a significant bequest by collectors Gordon Elliott and Michael Eyes that will support the Gallery’s Collection and future commissions. 

This exhibition will showcase some of the artworks, which will eventually be donated to the MRAG Collection as part of this bequest, by 10 significant Australian and New Zealand artists including Rick Amor, Robert Fielding, James Gleeson, Jess Johnson, Euan Macleod, Clement Meadmore, Reko Rennie, Anne Ross, Terry Stringer and Michael Zavros. 

9.5 The Elliott Eyes Bequest exhibition highlights the quality and diversity of artists supported through Gordon and Michael’s patronage. Each artwork in this exhibition marks a milestone in the evolving legacy of Gordon Elliott and Michael Eyes, reflecting the connection formed with the Gallery.  

MRAG Deputy Director Courtney Novak describes the bequest as both generous and forward-thinking.  

“The generosity of Gordon Elliott and Michael Eyes is a gift for future generations. Their bequest will allow MRAG to continue collecting, commissioning and showcasing high-quality, contemporary art, supporting artists and engaging audiences for years to come.” 

The impact of the bequest extends beyond the donation of artworks to the Gallery’s Collection. Through a trust administered by MRAG, there will be ongoing annual funding for new commissions by artists from Australia and New Zealand. Each new work will then be added to the MRAG Collection, continuing the legacy of Gordon and Michael’s support and artistic development. 

Reflecting on their contribution, Gordon Elliott and Michael Eyes said, “Knowing that our collection and estate will contribute to the ongoing commissioning of art and artists into the future is a great feeling.   

“We look forward to an ongoing relationship with the Gallery for many years to come and feel that our legacy will live on and be an exciting contribution to artists and the Gallery’s community.”  

The Elliott Eyes Collection, containing more than 460 contemporary artworks, is housed in Gordon Elliott and Michael Eyes’ home, a Victorian terrace house in Sydney’s inner west. Since first connecting with MRAG in 2017, Gordon and Michael have generously shared their collection through exhibitions, donations and acquisitions, enriching the cultural life of Maitland and beyond.  

9.5 The Elliott Eyes Bequest opens at Maitland Regional Art Gallery on 14 June 2025. For more information, visit mait.city/TheElliottEyesBequest.