Harold Mitchell, Chairman of the National Gallery of Australia

This is my first report as Chairman of the National Gallery of Australia Council and I would like to place on record the distinguished service to the Gallery of my predecessor Mr Kerry Stokes AO whose term of four years as Chairman concluded last December. Mr Stokes had been Chairman since 1996 and a member of Council since 1993. On behalf of the Council and staff of the Gallery, I would like to thank Mr Stokes for his dedication and commitment to the Gallery. Other changes to the Council include the appointment of two new Council Members, Mr Michael Chaney and Dr Peter Farrell.

The past year has been an important one for the Gallery, with all challenges being met with considerable success. Broadening access to the Gallery’s collection continues both nationally and internationally. This was achieved through a series of successful exhibitions displayed at the Gallery and at venues throughout Australia and internationally. Similarly, the Partnership Program with regional galleries and museums throughout Australia continues to play an important role. This program fosters close professional links and an exchange of skills between the Gallery and the participating institutions. Access to the collection of works of art, Gallery programs and activities was also increased. The Gallery’s website, www.nga.gov.au, is also constantly being upgraded and enhanced.

The range of exhibitions displayed at the Gallery was extensive and diverse and included: Inside Out: New Chinese art; Aboriginal Art in Modern Worlds; Going to Extremes: George Silk, photojournalist; Uncommon World: Aspects of contemporary Australian art; Painting Forever: Tony Tuckson; and Off the Page: Contemporary artists books from Picasso to Clemente. The year ended with the long awaited and highly acclaimed Monet & Japan.

The work of Arthur Boyd was displayed at Australia House in London as part of the arts program to coincide with Australia Week and the Centenary of Federation celebrations. The Gallery’s contribution to the Centenary of Federation celebrations, the exhibition Federation: Australian art and society 1901–2001, was displayed at the Gallery in Canberra and then travelled throughout Australia.

During the year, the Gallery conducted a process to select an architectural firm to undertake a major building enhancement program. Tonkin Zulaikha Greer Architects were selected to work with the Gallery on these improvements. When completed, the plans for redevelopment will provide opportunities for enhanced presentation of the Gallery collection, as well as new visitor facilities with much easier visitor access to the building.

The Gallery benefits greatly from our volunteer guides, researchers and hospitality group. With 2001 the International Year of the Volunteer, this is a great opportunity to celebrate and acknowledge their contribution. On behalf of the Council, I would like to thank all Gallery volunteers for their continued involvement.

Important works of art were acquired throughout the year. This was in line with the Council’s decision to continue to build and strengthen the existing collection through the acquisition of premium works of art. Many of the works could not have been acquired had it not been for the support of many benefactors. Under the chairmanship of Mr Tony Berg AM, and with an expanded and committed Board of Directors, the National Gallery Foundation has played a leading role in supporting the acquisition of many important works of art. During the year the Foundation embarked on a Capital Campaign to assist with the acquisition of works of art and is having significant success.

Sadly, this year saw the passing of one of the Gallery’s major benefactors, Dr Orde Poynton AO CMG. Dr Poynton’s munificence over many years had contributed in a vital way to building the collection of International Prints, Drawings and Illustrated Books.

We continue to enjoy support from many corporations and individuals and are grateful to the corporate sponsors for their involvement with the exhibition program and other elements of our activities.

The Council would like to acknowledge the support received from the Federal Government throughout the year, and in particular by our two Ministers, Senator the Hon. Richard Alston and the Hon. Peter McGauran MP, and officers of the Department of Communications, Information Technology and the Arts. The Government’s continued support of Art Indemnity Australia, which enabled the Gallery to present the Monet & Japan exhibition this year, is very much appreciated.

Finally I would like to acknowledge the Director, Dr Brian Kennedy, and the staff of the Gallery for their efforts during another eventful, challenging and successful year.

Harold Mitchell
Chairman of Council