Tolarno Galleries came into being in 1967, one of the first private galleries in Melbourne. Right from the start, the program was a steady rhythm of changing exhibitions. Hardly a pause till now when a landmark moment provides the opportunity to shine the spotlight on the recent work of each artist.
@50 features twenty-six independent artists and a wide range of media: photography, painting, sculpture and installation. It's a cacophony of voices from Tim Johnson's spiritual landscapes to Elizabeth Willing's Pink Poles composed of store-bought liquid icy poles. Included also is a collaboration by Patricia Piccinini and Peter Hennessey and a breathtaking photograph by Bill Henson. Such extraordinary diversity aims to celebrate the singularity of each expression, allowing the art to speak for itself.
Conceived less as a group exhibition, more an ensemble of soloists, @50 creates a one- time-only environment rich in surprises. Over eight weeks, a changing display will showcase works by: Brook Andrew, Benjamin Armstrong, Peter Atkins, Martin Bell, Andrew Browne, Nicholas Folland, Douglas Lance Gibson, Brent Harris, Louise Hearman, Peter Hennessey, Bill Henson, Brendan Huntley, Tim Johnson, Anastasia Klose, Rosemary Laing, Christopher Langton, Tim Maguire, Danie Mellor, Dan Moynihan, Riley Payne, Patricia Piccinini, Ben Quilty, Caroline Rothwell, David Wadelton, Judy Watson and Elizabeth Willing.
This year marks nine years in the elegant space designed by Peter Elliott AM. In 2017 Peter Elliott was awarded the Gold Medal for Architecture, the Australian Institute of Architects highest honour, for his distinguished design and exceptional contribution to the profession.
Tolarno Galleries has been at the cutting edge of contemporary Australian art for many years. Four artists have represented Australia at the Venice Biennale and the exhibition program attracts the attention of collectors, curators and critics from around the globe.
