A collection of artworks valued at over $500,000 has been donated to Gosford Regional Gallery by Hornsby Arts Council, more than doubling the value of Gosford City’s art collection.
Mayor of Gosford, Cr Lawrie McKinna made the surprise announcement to guests at the exhibition opening of ‘The Gift’ at Gosford Regional Gallery on Friday, February 5.
It was announced that all works will remain permanently in the Gosford Council Art Collection at the close of the exhibition on Sunday, April 3.
‘The Gift’ was presented to Cr McKinna by artist Ursula Laverty, who was the brainchild behind the original collection. Along with husband Peter Laverty, a former director of the Art Gallery of NSW, and artist Margaret Woodward, Ursula was responsible for securing many of the donations of behalf of Hornsby Arts Council.
Cr McKinna said the entire Gosford community is set to benefit from this generous donation. “My fellow councillors and I are extremely grateful for this amazing act of generosity, what a fabulous gift for Gosford and our wider community,” Cr McKinna said.
“I would like to thank and congratulate Hornsby Arts Council for their foresight and passion, which has resulted in this magnificent investment in the arts. “We are thrilled that the collection has found its new home in Gosford,” Cr McKinna continued.
“It is a significant cultural asset which will further enhance the strong reputation of our vibrant arts community.” A search for a new home for the Hornsby Bestowed Collection began two years ago when plans for a regional gallery at Hornsby failed to materialise.
Gosford was chosen as the ideal location, as many of the featured artists originate from the Central Coast or enjoy strong ties with the area. Collection artworks are displayed for public viewing on rotation in council buildings, including libraries, community centres and the main Council Administration building.
Email, Feb 8, 2016, Gosford Council media