Ned Kelly remains a highly mythologised character in Australian history. 

Some say he was a murderous villain and outlaw, while others proclaim him a misunderstood folk hero. 

The circumstances of his short life and violent death enthralled and appalled the public in his own time, and the stories surrounding Ned and the Kelly Gang have been kept alive by subsequent generations.

Ned Kelly’s enduring popularity – as bushranger, bank robber and man of the people – was undoubtedly assisted by the myriad of publications that displayed illustrations and detailed descriptions of Kelly events, to the extent that in his own lifetime Ned Kelly was a household name. 

Innumerable plays, films and television series have also been produced about the Kellys. 

It is interesting to see the shift in the interpretation of the legend of Ned Kelly over the century: from a story based on the undeniable “facts” to a romantic dramatisation, from thief and murderer to popular hero and voice for the oppressed. 

This change is almost certainly due to the evolving role of cinema over this period, but also a consequence of society’s changing attitude to the Kelly story, and the developing awareness of human history being comprised of a multiplicity of viewpoints rather than a single authorised history. 

This exhibition explores the story of Ned through original artefacts such as Ned’s armour and rifle, his official prison record and excerpts from the Jerilderie letter. 

Alongside these artefacts is a selection of works of art by artists who have taken their inspiration from the narrative of Ned Kelly. From Sidney Nolan, one of Australia’s most celebrated artists, to the acclaimed writer Peter Carey, and overseas-born artists Guan Wei and Vipoo Srivilasa, the story of Ned maintains its fascination for artists – and some would argue its relevance – and continues to be reinvented by new generations of artists working across a diverse range of media.

The gallery has produced an e-catalogue to accompany the exhibition that will be available for free download from the website once the exhibition opens to the public. 

Imagining Ned opens to the public at 10am today and runs until June 28. 

LOCAL OFFER

To celebrate the launch of this exhibition, Bendigo Art Gallery is offering all locals a “two for one” opportunity throughout April. 

Bring a friend along to the Ned Kelly exhibition, present proof that you’re a local, and you’ll get two for one entry – that’s just $10 for two adults (offer only valid for full-priced tickets).