Dear Readers

Welcome to the Spring/Summer edition of Artel!

Visiting MRAG with children recently reminded me of the importance of questioning how we know what we know, and the role of art in challenging us to think in new ways and spark unexpected conversations – as we wonder at how and why an artwork has come to be. Having that opportunity at our doorstep is something I truly value. I’m beyond excited about the conversations and wonder that the Spring/Summer exhibition program will inspire and hope that you are too. As part of the MRAG Member community we can look forward to enjoying the seasons’ program of special member events, discounts on tickets, workshops and artist talks. See you there! Sui-Linn White Chairperson, MRAGM Committee Message from the Gallery The past six months flew by at the Gallery. Many of you joined us as we celebrated the launch of our major exhibition, Shadow Boxer and took part in Free Art Sunday, artist led workshops and our education programs. We are now gearing up for the next six months with a host of exhibitions that will knock your socks off. In September, we open A Conspicuous Object, where art meets history as we explore the personal and public stories of the Maitland Hospital. We present two exhibitions that tackle environmental crisis by responding to the 2019/2020 bushfires, with a very personal solo exhibition by artist Fiona Lee and a cheeky and powerful response by 27 leading Australian artists in Bushfire Brandalism. Our upstairs gallery will be heaving with the work of over 50 of Australia’s leading artists – the glittering alumni of the National Art School - and join us as we wonder at the masterful set design of artist and filmmaker Daniel Agdad who will recreate the set of his art deco post-industrial inspired world. While we’ve had to change, shift or cancel some of our programs recently, we hope to keep offering our workshops over the coming months. We extend our support and thoughts to all artists doing it tough at this time. The MRAG team