SAM opens its vault

TREASURE TROVE... Shepparton Art Museum (SAM) is implementing a new strategic vision and has recently launched a new immersive, permanent but evolving exhibition, Stories from the SAM Collection. Photo: Supplied

IMMERSE yourself in the Shepparton Art Museum’s (SAM) captivating new permanent but ever-changing exhibition, Stories from the SAM Collection. Unfolding across a series of thematic rooms, each section of the exhibition uniquely explores the history and the make-up of SAM’s collection.

Familiar and beloved artworks, including John Perceval’s Delinquent Angel and Mirdidingkingathi Juwarnda Sally Gabori’s King Alfred’s Country, are presented alongside recent acquisitions, including works from Afghani-Australian artist Khadim Ali and David Noonan, inviting the viewer along on a journey that not only explores the genesis of the SAM collection, but its continuing evolution to reflect the changing landscape of contemporary Australian art.

Recently appointed artistic director, Danny Lacy, said, “The team have seized the opportunity to unearth some fascinating stories from the SAM Collection. This exhibition model embraces a new permanent format to present a greater diversity of artworks and artists, allowing our audience to gain a deeper, more holistic understanding of not only what artworks we’ve amassed in the collection over our 88-year history, but also how we are continuing to build on it.

TREASURE TROVE… Shepparton Art Museum (SAM) is implementing a new strategic vision and has recently launched a new immersive, permanent but evolving exhibition, Stories from the SAM Collection. Photo: Supplied

“Our collection is a shared one and has grown through the generosity of our community. We hope that visitors to the exhibition can take a sense of pride in what has been created through our shared passion and vision for a vibrant, significant collection.”

Joining Danny in a new executive role is Andrew Gooley, who has recently been appointed as SAM’s director of business. These joint director appointments come as the SAM Limited Board implements a new strategic vision that continues to elevate its focus on artistic programming and business development.

Stories from the SAM Collection is now showing in The People’s Gallery on Level 2 of the museum.

An exhibition opening event will be held at SAM on 18 October to celebrate the local artists of SAM Open and the new season of exhibitions at the museum. Registrations to this free event can be made via Humanitix: https://events.humanitix.com/sam-exhibition-celebration