Local Carlton gallery unveils annual Christmas exhibition

Bridget McDonnell Gallery’s 39th annual Christmas exhibition will open on December 6, with this year’s event promising a diverse selection of works by both renowned Australian and international artists, continuing the gallery’s tradition of showcasing exceptional art.

Bridget McDonnell Gallery, a mainstay of the Carlton art scene since 1986, first hosted the Christmas exhibition in 1985, just two years after gallery owner Bridget McDonnell started the gallery at its first location in Armadale.

The inaugural show featured woodcuts by Hall Thorpe, with the gallery now known for its focus on Australian art, presenting regular exhibitions of early Australian watercolours, modern Australian paintings, and Australian women artists, among others.

This year’s Christmas exhibition, curated by Ms McDonnell, will feature more than 100 works priced under $2,000. 

The collection includes pieces by notable artists such as William Strutt, William Dobell, Sidney Nolan, Shay Docking, and others, offering a rare opportunity to acquire significant artworks at affordable prices. 

“The Christmas exhibition is our most popular exhibition of the year, and many of the major public collections in Australia have purchased works at our Christmas exhibition – which demonstrates the calibre of the pieces we feature,” Ms McDonnell said.

“It is a wonderful opportunity to invest in a historically relevant piece to add to your collection, or as a gift for someone special.”

McDonnell is also excited to present a special highlight of the exhibition - works by her close friend, British artist Celia Perceval. 

Ms Perceval, the daughter of esteemed Australian artist John Perceval, recently visited Melbourne for a solo show at the gallery. 

She was joined by her family, including cousins Polly Boyd and other relatives, to celebrate the event. 

Among the works featured in the Christmas exhibition are Beaty on her Bike (1969) and John Merrick (1970) – two early drawings that capture the children of Ms Perceval’s brother, artist Matthew Perceval.

Matthew Perceval, also a contributing artist to the exhibition, will showcase several of his own pieces. 

The exhibition runs from December 6 to 21, with the gallery open from Tuesday to Saturday. •