Menagerie: animals in Bendigo history, a selection of stories exploring human/animal relationships, is currently on display in the Post Office Gallery.

These stories include the plight of unique native species, the monkeys at the Bendigo Botanic Gardens, turn-of-the-century goat racing, introduced species, horse-drawn transport and animal exhibits at the Bendigo Show. 

The individual stories make up a large, complex and layered municipal picture and highlight the great benefits, responsibilities, challenges and joys of living with animals.

Today much is being done to counter the legacy of historical choices and actions in relation to animals, and attitudes and behaviors toward them continue to evolve. So too does the story of animals in Bendigo.

Examining the way animals have sustained, guided, entertained, sometimes overwhelmed, and, ultimately, enriched the lives of people in this region gives us insights that inform our ongoing interaction with and stewardship of the natural world.

In further contemplation of the human/animal relationship and in this case, the art it has inspired, Bendigo Art Gallery’s historic Bolton Court is currently hung with a menagerie of its own.

Animals have always been a popular theme in art, whether real or imaginary, domestic or exotic, and used literally, symbolically or figuratively to explore the myriad ways animals interact with our lives.

In anticipation of the upcoming exhibition Collective Vision:130 years, contemporary and historic artworks featuring animals from the gallery’s collection have been curated into a quirky display.

A highlight of this animal-themed collection display is Auk by Melbourne-based artist Louise Weaver.

Auk is a taxidermied Auk (Alca torda) enclosed in hand-crocheted lambswool and cotton perle thread.

An excellent swimmer and diver, in nature Auk’s are notable for their ability to ‘fly’ under water.

Underneath Auk’s charming appearance and delicate embellishment, deeper environmental concerns are explored by the artist regarding global warming and loss of habitat.

Continuing the animal theme, on January 17, 18 and 24 children will have the opportunity to design and create unique animal prints using foam, inks and rollers as part of the Gallery’s school holiday workshops.

These animal-inspired workshops will take place at Bendigo Art Gallery’s satellite space Post Office Gallery at 51–67 Pall Mall.

Bookings are essential. Visit www.bendigoartgallery.com.au for more information, cost and booking details.

Menagerie: animals in Bendigo history is open every day, 9am–5pm, until February 12.