Maitland Regional Art Gallery is set for the summer season

Maitland Regional Art Gallery (MRAG) has unveiled five new exhibitions for audiences to explore this summer season, offering visitors the chance to immerse themselves in a world of birds and experience the powerful stories of celebrated Yankunytjatjara/Arrernte artist Robert Fielding.  

Twitcher celebrates birds in art with an all-star lineup of 23 diverse artists from across Australia who pay homage to birds and the natural world across their work.  

Gallery Director Gerry Bobsien said, 'Capturing the beauty and fragility of birds, this delightful and colourful exhibition will both inspire visitors to head outdoors for a spot of creative birdwatching as well as highlight our responsibility to safeguard the survival of birds into the future.’   

An artist, storyteller and keeper of Tjukurpa (ceremony and culture), Robert Fielding showcases his 2022 unique state print portfolio for the first time in his exhibition Tjukurpa – Handle It, joined by a number of important works from the past decade.  

‘Having worked closely with Mimili Maku Arts throughout the past year, we’re thrilled to be sharing this significant exhibition of Fielding’s work here on Wonnarua Country,’ Ms Bobsien said.  

‘Fielding’s work is expansive with stories of his family, teachers and Elders in Mimili Community in the remote Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Lands, combining his strong cultural roots with contemporary views to create new conversations between time, place and cultures.’  

During November, Robert Fielding and collaborator and master printmaker Trent Walter were in residency at MRAG leading a series of collaborative workshops with local artists in partnership with Mindaribba Local Aboriginal Land Council. These collaborative works are now on display in the exhibition tjintu kutju, kililpi tjuta – one sun, many stars.  

The Foundations are Shifting Beneath features curious sculptural forms by South Australian artist Anna Horne. Crafted from unlikely materials, her sculptures explore human strength and vulnerability in the search for stability within an ever-changing environment.  

Body Work presents selected works from the Gallery’s collection alongside the monumental form of Ron Mueck’s Pregnant woman, spotlighting the flesh, bones and mechanics that make up the human form.  

All exhibitions are free and closing dates vary. For more information on MRAG’s upcoming exhibitions and programs, visit mrag.org.au