Everyone is invited to experience three new exhibitions opening at Manning Regional Art Gallery from 5 June to 25 July 2026.
A Private Collection – For the Love of Art, features works from a private collection built over decades by a passionate Australian Art collector.
Beginning with the purchase of a John Coburn painting at age 17, the collection has grown to include works by artists such as Ray Crooke, Tim Storrier and Jeffrey Smart.
What started as a single acquisition evolved into a rich and eclectic survey of Australian art, reflecting both a lifelong passion and an evolving eye, each piece contributing to a narrative that is as much about the collector's journey as it is about the art itself.
Also opening is Matrescence, a collaborative exhibition by regional and national artists Carolyn Myhill, Sophie Watt, Annick Staindl and Bron Sharpe.
Through ceramics, floral sculpture, poetry and photography, the exhibition explores the experience of becoming a mother and the emotional contrasts that can come with it, including contentment and overwhelm, instinct and uncertainty.
The collection of works presents a shared reflection on motherhood and the ways it can reshape identity, relationships and everyday life.
Artist and Old Bar local, Christine Onward will present Enchanted Travels, an imaginative exhibition inspired by folklore, nature and childhood wonder.
Working across painting, printmaking, collage and sculpture, Christine's naive folk style combines influences from her Romanian heritage and the Australian coastal landscape.
Her exhibition invites audiences into colourful and whimsical worlds designed to inspire imagination, curiosity and kindness.
Christine is also a dedicated arts educator who has delivered workshops across the MidCoast, including recent programs at libraries and galleries in Taree, Forster, Hallidays Point and Nabiac.
These three exhibitions will officially open at 6pm on Friday 5 June 2026.
Opening night is a Friends of the Gallery fundraising event and everyone is welcome to attend. Entry is $15, tickets can be pre-purchased via Humanitix or at the door.
Find out what else is happening at the Gallery by visiting https://mrag.midcoast.nsw.gov.au/Home
