1956

Geelong Gallery held various exhibitions in 1956 that reflected the strong creative community in Geelong. 

Among these were the Geelong Society of Art Exhibition, the Geelong Society of Art Competition for school children and the Secondary Schools’ Exhibition of Arts and Crafts. Our 1956 annual report notes that the exhibitions attracted visitors who ‘otherwise would not have made the visit’, reflecting the popularity of local student art. 

Charles D and the Late Mary James gifted a selection of ceramics, glassware and furniture to Geelong Gallery in this year, substantially enhancing the decorative arts collection. 

The W Max Bell Gallery was officially opened after a three year effort to raise the necessary funds for its construction. Australian artist Daryl Lindsay was set to officiate the opening, but was called to Canberra to receive his knighthood, so Australian businessman and National Gallery of Victoria Trustee Aubrey Gibson took his place. Max Bell’s sister Gladys Bell cut the ribbon to Geelong Gallery in memory of her late brother.