The National Gallery of Victoria in Melbourne has a large collection of Australian prints and drawings; at last count they stood at over 4,500. The holdings feature several well-known Australian artists. Understanding how Australian prints have changed over the years provides those in the printing industry with a deeper understanding of the art process. Those located in the nearby suburb of Epping can visit the gallery any time they need inspiration or if they just want to admire the great work of the past.
The basis of the collection both at the National Gallery and other art galleries were prints originally purchased by the Australian government for display in official residences. Among those who contributed to the original collection was well-known Australian artists mostly of the past. After 1977 most galleries started collecting contemporary prints from such groups as Earthworks Poster Collective.
The Australian Print and Drawings collection features such artists as Eric Wilson, C. Douglas Richardson, Margaret Olley and Noel Counihan. In more recent years the National Gallery of Victoria has been concentrating on acquiring old master prints.
Looking at hundreds of years of Australian prints and drawings gives the viewer a true understanding of the art and how it has grown and developed over the years. While not as well-known as other artists who have created prints such as Albrecht Drurer and Pablo Picasso, Australian printmakers are among the finest in the world. Their work can stand up against the great ones any day.Get a Free Quote for Print
