THIRTY years on, Australian painter Arthur Boyd's incredible vision continues to thrive through the most recent $34 million developments at Bundanon.
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The Shoalhaven region may experience a cultural tourism boom in the coming weeks with doors opening to Bundanon's new state-of-the-art museum and bridge for creative learning.
The new 160-metre long bridge, built into the existing hillside of the property, will offer accommodation for up to 64 people, as well as feature a cafe with a 'paddock to plate' menu that sources produce from across the Shoalhaven region.
In addition, the new 500-metre squared art museum designed by Kerstin Thompson Architects (KTA), will be a hub of year-round exhibitions showcasing modern, contemporary and First Nations art.
The museum will also include a world-class storage facility that will protect Bundanon's $46.5 million collection consisting of works created by Arthur Boyd and his contemporaries such as Sidney Nolan.
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The project aims to continue to facilitate growth within the region.
Minister for Arts Ben Franklin said the funding will "enable the museum to maintain and protect the treasured Boyd collection for the enjoyment and education of future generations".
Minister for Communications Paul Fletcher said the architectural expansion will not only position Bundanon as a "tourist hub" but also help to assist in facilitating "increased employment and economic growth within the region".
The Bundanon property gifted to the public in 1993 by painter Arthur Boyd and his wife Yvonne, encompasses more than 1000 hectares of bushland overlooking the Shoalhaven River.
The Boyds had an ambitious view for the future of their property and with the help of the government and private donors, Bundanon has remained one of Australia's most important cultural institutions.
The design of the recent facilities was centered around the Boyd's family wishes to "foster an appreciation for and understanding of landscape and art."
"Both the art museum and bridge respond to current and future climatic conditions, with inspiration drawn from rural Australia's trestle flood bridges," said architect Kerstin Thompson.
The museum's inaugural exhibition From Impulse to Action. will feature work from Australian contemporary artists across a range of disciplines. The exhibition will run from January 29 through to February 12.
Entry will be free this coming weekend with timed entry for social distancing.
You can find out more at www.bundanon.com.au