The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Bronwyn Bishop, did not have to call for order.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Her audience was happy to let her talk as the guest of honour for Maitland Regional Art Gallery’s autumn program opening on Saturday.
“It was a great atmosphere,” MRAG deputy director Brigette Uren said.
“Regardless of what side of politics people fall into Bronwyn Bishop has created a legacy of strong women in Parliament and I think people respect that.”
About 250 people attended the opening, which kicks off with works by portrait artist Kerrie Lester.
The portrait of Mrs Bishop is part of Lester’s exhibition Facetime.
Mrs Bishop sat for it in 1993.
“She hadn’t seen it for a while and remarked on how nice it was,” Mrs Uren said.
“[Mrs Bishop] was very pleasant and very knowledgeable – she’s had an extensive working relationship with people in the arts.”
Lester’s works replace the Archibald Prize which was on display at MRAG until last weekend as part of a regional tour.
Her works have been hung no less than 16 times in the Archibalds.
Lindy Greedy’s Art Factory works also form part of the autumn program.
Art Factory is a commentary on shows and the sights from sideshow alley.
