Broken Hill City Art Gallery is calling on the local community to help bring together a special retrospective exhibition commemorating 20 years since the passing of one of Broken Hill's most celebrated and beloved artists, Pro Hart.
Pro Hart – Beyond the Canvas: A Retrospective Exhibition 20 Years On will explore the breadth of Pro's artistic practice and the remarkable relationship between the artist, Broken Hill and the Australian outback.
The Gallery is seeking locally held artworks, photographs, personal items, memorabilia and stories that can help create a rich and personal picture of Pro's life, work and enduring connection to the city.
Broken Hill City Art Gallery Manager Kathy Graham said the community's contributions would be central to telling the story of Pro beyond his well-known artworks.
"Pro Hart was not only an artist of extraordinary national significance; he was also a neighbour, employer, mentor, friend and much-loved member of the Broken Hill community," Ms Graham said.
"We know there are many artworks, photographs, objects and personal stories held within local homes that reveal different sides of Pro and his life in Broken Hill.
"These items do not need to be of significant monetary value. Often, the most meaningful stories are found in the objects that have been kept, treasured and passed down through families."
The Gallery is interested in hearing from anyone who may have:
- Pro Hart paintings, drawings, prints or other artworks
- Sketches, studies or works on paper
- Sculptural works or objects
- Photographs of Pro, his family, studio, exhibitions or community activities
- Exhibition invitations, catalogues, posters or promotional material
- Personal correspondence, cards or signed material
- Newspaper articles or publications relating to Pro
- Art-making tools, studio items or objects associated with Pro
- Memorabilia, merchandise or other items connected to Pro and his artistic career
- Personal stories or memories that may help bring the exhibition to life.
Items with a connection to Broken Hill and the local community are of particular interest, including those that tell stories about Pro as an artist, innovator, neighbour, employer, mentor, friend or community member.
Community members who have an item or story they believe may be suitable are encouraged to contact Broken Hill City Art Gallery with further details and photographs where possible.
"We would be grateful for the community's help in bringing together this special tribute to Pro and his enduring legacy," Ms Graham said.
"If you have a piece of Pro's story, we would love to hear from you."
Pro Hart – Beyond the Canvas: A Retrospective Exhibition 20 Years On will open at Broken Hill City Art Gallery on 2 November 2026 and continue until February 2027.
