Central Goldfields Art Gallery transformation unveiled

07/03/2023

The Central Goldfields Art Gallery is reopening its doors to the public to reveal a redeveloped building designed to drive more arts and cultural events in Maryborough, thanks to support from the Victorian Government.

The project is backed by almost $2.3 million from the Regional Infrastructure Fund, Regional Tourism Investment Fund and Regional Collections Access Program and is located in Maryborough’s historic fire station built in 1861.

Iconic red doors and 19th century ceiling beams have been retained, combining the historic features with a modern open-plan design. Upgrades to the building’s lighting, air conditioning and flooring are also complete to offer a better visitor experience with improved accessibility.

The refurbished gallery will provide more space for art exhibitions and permanent displays, a fitted-out collection store, and an overhauled workshop area to encourage more engagement from students, groups and creatives.

The gallery’s reopening begins with a headline exhibition from Maryborough artist Dean Bowen - Ladder to the Stars: Dean Bowen Sculptures – featuring 35 bronze sculptures that explore human potential and imagination. The town’s annual Community Art exhibition will also be on display to celebrate the gallery’s return.

Maryborough is already renowned for its arts and culture and the gallery is expected to attract more visitors to town each year. Planning is also underway to deliver the Indigenous Interpretive Garden near the gallery, which will acknowledge and celebrate the Dja Dja Wurrung People.

The Regional Infrastructure Fund is part of the Victorian Government’s flagship Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund. The Fundiskey to the Government’s record investment of more than $36 billion across regional and rural Victoria since 2015. For more information about the Fund, visit Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund.

The Regional Tourism Investment Fund is part of the $633 million Victorian Government investment in the Visitor Economy Recovery and Reform Plan. For more information, visit Regional Tourism Investment Fund.

The Regional Collections Access Program enables galleries and museums throughout Victoria to upgrade their facilities to safeguard collections, borrow items from other collections and provide visitors greater access to collections.

The gallery will be open Thursdays to Sundays between 10am and 4pm.