Image: Marlene Gilson, Possession Captain Cook First Fleet 2017, synthetic polymer paint on linen, Purchase 2017, Deakin University Art Collection. Image © and courtesy of the artist and Martin Browne Contemporary, Sydney.
The collection first came together with artworks from Deakin University’s antecedent institutional collections including Victoria College, Prahran College of Advanced Education, the Douglas McDonnell and others. It now consists of approximately 3,000 artworks by over 900 artists.
The collection is comprised of examples of innovative creative practices including achievements in painting, sculpture, print, drawing, ceramic, photography, textiles and includes one of Australia’s largest holdings of artist books. Importantly, it is home to cherished artworks by First Peoples, including many artists that are based in South-Eastern Australia. It also houses artworks by our past and present students and staff, telling a special story of the Deakin University origins and its community.
A selection of important works in the collection are by artists such as: Hoda Afshar, George Baldessin, Gordon Bennett, Uncle Jim Berg, Ronald Bull, Arthur Boyd, Stephen Bram, Maree Clarke, John Cato, Vicki Couzens, Mikala Dwyer, Fayen d’Evie, Robert Fielding, Emily Floyd, Sally Gabori, Simyrn Gill, Aunty Marlene Gilson, Elizabeth Gower, Inge King, Robert Klippel, Hayley Millar Baker, Sidney Nolan, Lin Onus, John Olsen, Robert Rooney, Mike Parr, Kerrie Poliness, The Ken Sisters, Jenny Watson, Ron Robertson-Swann and Fred Williams among many others.
Maintaining and developing this collection demonstrates the University’s ongoing interest in the study, patronage and advancement of the visual arts in Australia. Acquisition highlights can often be found through our social media.
We are always happy to consider donations from artists and collectors as direct donations or through the Australian Government Cultural Gifts Program, please email us for more information. If you have a research or collection enquiry, please contact the Art Gallery team.
