IPSWICH Art Gallery celebrated 25 years in the region last week having welcomed more than two million visitors across that time.
The gallery has hosted 675 exhibitions and looks to host many more, including the works of local artist Matthew Cheyne.
Cheyne has exhibited his work in Cologne, Berlin and Luxembourg and has an exhibition coming up at the Ipswich Art Gallery in March 2025.
“As an artist, I feel very lucky to live in a region with such a high calibre art gallery,” he said.
“The space is wonderful, but more importantly the team are so highly skilled and just keep bringing more and more amazing shows to life.
“It’s a real honour and very exciting to be working with IAG on a major exhibition next year.”
Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said the Ipswich Art Gallery had been a cornerstone of the cultural identity of the city.
“It’s been great to have space for local, national and international artists to display their works as well as for Ipswich residents of all ages to experience artwork of such high calibre,” Mayor Harding said.
“The gallery has been recognised as being one of Australia’s most visited regional art galleries as well as recently hitting a major milestone welcoming it’s two millionth visitor.
“Australia’s very first permanent dedicated Children’s Gallery was established as part of the Ipswich Art Gallery, and has been recognised for its innovative exhibitions.”
Cr Harding said the gallery had shown 675 exhibitions, with works from local artists Kylie Hill, Kirralee Robinson, Lincoln Austin and Kate Douglas to international artists Mark Rothko and Agnes Martin to name a few.
“It is a very exciting time to visit the gallery, and Council is committed to see the Ipswich Art Gallery continue to bring people together and provide this incredible free service to enrich the Ipswich community.”
Ipswich Arts Foundation chair Alan Rix said the Ipswich Art Gallery has been a beacon for the visual arts and culture in Ipswich.
“Located in the heart of the city, it has provided the people of Ipswich with access to innovative art exhibitions and programs, a vibrant children’s gallery and activities, and a community gallery to showcase the work of local artists and craftspeople,” Professor Rix said.
The original art gallery opened in 1951, moving twice before finding it’s forever home back at its original location.
