University celebrates art collection

An exhibition of Southern Cross University’s (SCU) most significant art works will be opened by Vice-Chancellor Professor Paul Clark, at NEXT Gallery today.

The University has over 100 works in its collection, one of the most significant art collections in the region.

Vice-Chancellor, Professor Paul Clark said the University’s art collection reflected the changing identity of the University over the last 30 years.

“The collection began 34 years ago with the foresight, and commitment of the staff, at what was then Lismore Teachers College.”

“It was developed to be a significant cultural reference point for the benefit of the community, which it has undoubtedly achieved.”

“This impressive compilation of art now includes work by significant Australian artists Arthur Boyd, Judy Cassab, Janet Lawrence and Eric Smith, among other well known Australian artists.”

“The collection also includes many works by some of our exceptional visual art students or former students.”

“It is our hope the collection will continue to grow and to further enrich the University community and the entire region.”

Also at tonight’s exhibition the Vice-Chancellor will present the William Fletcher Trust scholarship to final year visual art student Natalya Garden-Thompson.

Natalya will receive the $1000 scholarship for demonstrating an outstanding printmaking practice.

The William Fletcher Trust was established in 1985 to celebrate the life and to commemorate the work of William Ernest Maurice Fletcher (1924-1983), painter and printmaker. The Trust has supported a number of Southern Cross University students over the years.

* The artwork attached is a painting by Eric Smith of artist Lloyd Rees, 1979. Purchased by SCU in 1979.

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