Art News

The Next big thing

An exhibition showcasing key works from the SCU Permanent Art Collection, entitled Our Cinderella, is now on show at the Next Contemporary Art Space.

The exhibition reflects the changing identity of the University over the last 30 years, from the original Lismore Teachers College to the Northern Rivers College of Advanced Education and the University of New England, right up to its present incarnation as Southern Cross University.

The art collection was initiated in 1970 by staff of Lismore Teachers College and the first work bought for the collection was 'Fiesta' by John Coburn.

Over the last three decades the University has acquired around 45 significant works, with pieces from renowned artists such as Arthur Boyd, Colin Lancley, Eric Smith, Sydney Ball, Judy Cassab and many more.

"This exhibition is dedicated to the original staff of the Lismore Teachers College, whose aim it was to build a reputable art collection for future students and the local community," said gallery coordinator Shelagh Morgan. "They've left an important legacy for the people of Lismore, and it belongs to the community - it's their collection. In a hundred years time we want to look back with pride and we hope the University will continue to build on this collection in the future."

Our Cinderella is on show until November 26. The Uni closes for summer after that, so catch this piece of history while you can.