Carolyn Dew’s exhibition The Artificial Kingdom presents us with poignant photographic works that respectfully capture personal memorials created in cemeteries throughout central Victoria. 

Immortalised by Dew’s photographs, these often transient installations encourage us to consider the evolving tradition of marking and adorning gravesides. 

Enjoy a free floor talk by the artist at 11am on Saturday, January 31. All welcome. The exhibition continues until February 8.

Also on display is an exhibition of works by Ben Quilty. A stunning highlight in the La Trobe Gallery space, this exhibition of Quilty’s recent work is particularly relevant as the gallery has recently acquired a significant work by this artist for the permanent collection. 

More than five metres long and comprising eight panels, Kuta Rorschach No. 2 is a sublime landscape work with an impasto technique rendered using a method of application based on the inkblot test (also called the Rorschach test). The exhibition runs to March 1.

And the contemporary drawing exhibition, the Paul Guest Prize, has proven a hit with a range of visitors.

The prize, open to artists throughout Australia, has resulted in this exhibition of works by 45 finalists. The prize aims to encourages artists to engage with the important medium of drawing and to create challenging and unique art works. The exhibition closes on Sunday, January 26.

Our biannual family drawing event, Big Draw Bendigo, is tomorrow from 11am to 1pm. It features an exciting range of drawing activities both in and outside the gallery, as well as special artist-led workshops.

Activities are for all ages, entry is by gold coin donation and everyone’s welcome. Bookings preferred, please call 5434 6088.

For more information about gallery events and exhibitions, visit www.bendigoartgallery.com.au