A number of Tamworth Regional Gallery portraits will be going on display this week, when Archibald Prize 2023 comes to Tamworth.
Amongst the Gallery portraits on display, will be the portrait of the late Aunty Yvonne Kent, acquired by the Tamworth Regional Council at the end of 2023.
Tamworth Regional Council Director Art Gallery and Museums Bridget Guthrie said she hoped many would take the opportunity to view the portrait of the highly respected local Elder.
“This artwork is a collaborative project with community and has involved many community members including Aunty Yvonne’s family members”.
Locals were invited to contribute a brush stoke to the community art portrait which was facilitated through Tamworth Pioneers Portrait Leadership Development Program project, led by the board of Regional Unlimited, with support of Tamworth Family Support Services and Tamworth Regional Council.
“What better way to showcase the importance of this artwork, and how the community came together to create it, than hanging it alongside some of the most prestigious artworks from across the nation as part of the Archibald Prize 2023 Tour”.
Aunty Yvonne Kent was a Kamilaroi Elder with many accomplishments including helping to establish the Tamworth Regional Council Aboriginal Liaison Committee, was a former Chair of the Tamworth Local Aboriginal Land Council, 2018 Local Woman of the Year and was involved in many other community groups.
Deb Maes, Chair of Regional Unlimited said “We are deeply honoured to see Aunty Yvonne Kent’s portrait take its place among the esteemed artworks at the Tamworth Regional Gallery. This portrait is not just a depiction; it’s a testament to the strength of community collaboration and the enduring legacy of Aunty Yvonne’s leadership.”
The portrait is being installed on Monday 6 May, 2024 and will be on display until Sunday 23 June, 2024.
