A unique art exhibition about a travelling executioner will grace the walls of the Old Dubbo Gaol, providing a new immersive visitor experience this spring.
Mudgee-based artist, Michael Bourke has created a collection of 25 artworks featuring Nosey Bob, the travelling executioner who conducted hangings at the Old Dubbo Gaol as well as in other statewide prisons at the time.
Artist Michael Bourke said he was inspired to create the collection of artworks after reading Rachel Franks book about Robert 'Nosey Bob' Howard.
"I was expecting a monster but instead I found an incredibly complex and contradictory person making the best of a terrible situation," Mudgee artist Michael Bourke said.
"The paintings show just how strange and cruel the world can be, but more importantly, they are filled with humour, playfulness and beauty. I have tried to show that each and every one of us suffers, and that each and every one of us is worthy of love," Mr Bourke said.
Nosey Bob was the state executioner (principal hangman) from 1877 - 1903. Before that he was the hangman assistant in 1876. His first hanging as principal hangman was at Old Dubbo Gaol in 1877. Nosey Bob was involved in 62 executions, 59 of them as principal hangman. He was the longest serving NSW executioner.
Old Dubbo Gaol Coordinator Jane Bendall said the temporary art exhibition by Michael Bourke will add a unique contemporary artistic lens to Nosey Bob's time as the travelling executioner. Visitors will gain a deeper understanding of the infamous Nosey Bob and his connection to the Old Dubbo Gaol.
"The artworks invite visitors to consider his role as a travelling executioner and the broader social and emotional dimensions of the justice system during this period."
"We are excited to work alongside Michael Bourke to bring his exhibition to the Old Dubbo Gaol and deliver a unique experience unlike anything previously offered at the site," Ms Bendall said.
Residents of the Dubbo Local Government Area can visit the Old Dubbo Gaol and see this exhibition for free simply by showing proof of residency.
