Redeveloped Central Goldfields Art Gallery opens in Maryborough

The redeveloped Central Goldfields Art Gallery, owned and operated by the Central Goldfields Shire Council located in Maryborough, Victoria opened yesterday.

The redevelopment of the gallery was backed by an investment of almost $2.3 million from the Victorian Government to deliver upgrades to the building’s lighting, air conditioning and flooring, offering a better visitor experience with improved accessibility.

The new gallery is located in Maryborough’s historic fire station built in 1861 and has maintained its iconic red doors and 19th century ceiling beams, combining the historic features with a modern open-plan design.

The refurbished gallery provides 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.

Victorian Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events and Minister for Creative Industries Steve Dimopoulos notes “Maryborough is already a great place to visit and has a growing arts and cultural scene. The redeveloped Goldfields Art Gallery will help attract more visitors to town and encourage them to stay a little longer."

The gallery’s reopening includes 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.

Maryborough has a growing arts scene and the gallery will be a drawcard for the town to attract more visitors 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.