Ngununggula, the Southern Highlands’ first regional art gallery, has announced its inaugural exhibition program. Meaning “belonging” in the traditional language of the Gundungurra First Nation People, Ngununggula will open to the public on 25 September in what was the old dairy at Retford Park. Featuring a heritage-sensitive gallery design undertaken by Tonkin Zulaikha Greer and constructed by Richard Crookes Constructions. Ngununggula will be surrounded by a landscaped garden created by Jane Irwin and a new café, Hearth in partnership with Moonacres Kitchen.

Under the leadership of Director Megan Monte, the new Gallery will capture the cultural vibrancy of the region through a dynamic curatorial program and community-minded approach. With a focus on visual arts and education, the program will represent the region and beyond through significant exhibitions, artist-led projects, live events, workshops, artist talks and public programs. Creating engaging ways for the local community to connect with artists and their ideas will be at the core of Ngununggula’s philosophy.

The opening exhibition will feature new work by Tamara Dean alongside a major new commissioned installation by Megan Cope.

Image: The Old Dairy, Retford Park, Photo Ashley Mackevicius