Historic art up for grabs

The Gil Brooks watercolour.

By Lindy Schneider

Two exclusive original artworks featuring historic scenes of Healesville will be offered for sale prior to an upcoming exhibition.

The works have been held in a private collection since 1992.

The iconic work by Healesville artist Gil Brooks is a framed watercolour under glass originally painted in 1992.

It was first shown in the Heritage Exhibition at the Healesville Mechanics’ Institute Gallery to celebrate the remaining but disappearing richness of Yarra Valley historical buildings.

The artwork was faithfully executed from an original black and white photograph by Elton Villiers Fox.

A second painting by Ivy Burton Fox titled River Street will also be offered for pre-exhibition sale.

Pam Baragwanath, who was instrumental in the Healesville Mechanics Institute restoration, said: “Most of the original works from the exhibition were sold, but these paintings were retained in safe keeping and now is the time for them to be appreciated in a more relevant and hopefully public community space.”

The Retrospective Exhibition commemorating The Old Mechanics’ Institute Gallery and Tea Rooms

1984-1992 will feature original contributing artists’ work.

It will be held at Hearth Galleries, Shop 208 Maroondah Highway, Healesville, from 10 to 28 October. These works can be viewed prior to the exhibition by contacting Ms Chris Joy at Hearth Galleries on 0423 902 934.