NGA: Sharing the National Collection

Next date: Sunday, 30 March 2025 | 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM

Join us for an insightful conversation between MPRG Curator, Laura Castagnini and Dr. Lucina Ward, Senior Curator of International Art at the National Gallery of Australia (NGA).

This discussion offers a unique opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Bruce Nauman's work, The true artist helps the world by revealing mystic truths and the broader implications of art-sharing practices in Australia’s cultural landscape.

Laura and Lucina will delve into the significance of Nauman’s art and its impact, offering insights into its thematic depth and creative innovation. They will also discuss the NGA’s "Sharing the Collection" initiative, a groundbreaking program that fosters collaboration between institutions to make significant artworks more accessible to a broader public.

National Gallery Director, Nick Mitzevich says 'Sharing the National Collection with people in regional Australia is something close to my heart. I started my career in a regional gallery and I want to see as many people as possible, regardless of where they live, experience and enjoy the national collection. This support will allow us to share more of the national collection with more Australians and local communities – making it a truly national collection.'

Dr Lucina Ward is Senior Curator of International Art at the National Gallery of Australia, Canberra, where some of her projects include: Deep inside my heart (2023–24); Love & desire: Pre-Raphaelite masterpieces from Tate (2018–19); American Masters 1940–1980 (2018); Versailles: Treasures from the Palace (2016–17); James Turrell: A retrospective (2014–15); Masterpieces from Paris (2009–10) and Soft sculpture (2009). She worked with Turrell on Within without 2010, the Skyspace for the Sculpture Garden, and regularly publishes and lectures on many aspects of the collection.

Bruce Nauman is an influential American artist known for his pioneering work across a wide range of mediums, including sculpture, video, neon, installation, and performance art. Born in 1941, Nauman’s art often explores the complexities of human existence, communication, and perception. His works challenge conventional ideas of space, language, and the body, using humour, disorientation, and repetition to engage viewers. Nauman has received numerous awards throughout his career, including the Golden Lion at the Venice Biennale. His work is featured in major collections worldwide and continues to have a significant impact on contemporary art.

Image: Lucina Ward and Deep inside my heart, National Gallery of Australia, Canberra (25 November 2023–19 May 2024)

When

Location

MPRG, Civic Reserve, Dunns Rd, Mornington, 3931, View Map