The Castlemaine Art Museum is located in the heart of Victoria’s Goldfields region. It is renowned for its exceptional collection of Australian art, spanning from the late 1800s to more contemporary works.
Whether travelling to Castlemaine for a weekend or holiday, visiting this museum is worth your time. This is especially true if you are an art enthusiast interested in learning about Australia’s cultural history and artistic heritage.
The Museum’s Rich History
Established in 1913, Castlemaine Art Museum began with the mission to preserve and celebrate Australian art. The museum’s main highlights are masterpieces from the Edwardian era and thematic exhibitions, which showcase historical items from the Mount Alexander goldfields district, such as decorative arts, photographs, artefacts, and costumes.
Exploring Art at Castlemaine Art Museum
Castlemaine Art Museum welcomes locals and visitors to join other art lovers in exploring various artistic expressions. A visit to the museum is one of the best things to do in Castlemaine, thanks to the ongoing exhibitions that capture the region’s cultural and historical heritage and contemporary works from local artists.
Ongoing Exhibitions at Castlemaine Art Museum
Below is a quick overview of the ongoing exhibitions at Castlemaine Art Museum. We have highlighted what to expect from each exhibition so you can plan to attend those that pique your interest.
Portraits from the Collection – 23 May to 15 September 2024
This exhibit showcases a broad collection of 19th and 20th-century portraits, which capture the essence of light and shadow on skin and fabric. Some featured artists include Arnold Shore and Polly Hurry, who present figures caught in stillness.
The exhibition also features black-and-white portraits of artists by renowned photographers such as Hugh Frankland and Randolph Buchner. Other photographs showcase the Jaara and Dja Dja Wurrung communities’ culture, emphasising their connection to the land.
Jonathan Nichols: The Inside of Painting – 9 May to 1 September 2024
Jonathan Nichols’ exhibition bridges two decades of his artistic work, showcasing paintings that evoke intimacy while exploring the passage of time. The first paintings, created between 1998 and 2001, were inspired by images on a 1997 Apple PowerBook screen.
The second set, completed between 2021 and 2022, reflects Nichols’ exploration of figurative shapes and mannequins. This exhibition invites viewers to appreciate the evolution of paintings over time, highlighting the artist’s creativity and unique approach to art.
Wildflowers – The First Ladies of CAM – 8 March to 8 December 2024
The “Wildflowers” opened on International Women’s Day and is designed to pay tribute to the pioneering women who founded the Castlemaine Art Museum. Among the celebrated figures are Lilian Sheridan, Alice Waterhouse, and Mary Leviny.
The centrepiece of this exhibition is a story cloth, symbolising the combined effort of 24 artists, most of whom are from Castlemaine. Original artworks by artists such as Elsie and Alice, as well as household items belonging to Winfred, offer a glimpse into the personal lives of the founding members and their contribution to Australian art.
Stonework – 7 September 2023 to 8 December 2024
Stonework highlights stones’ spiritual and material significance, especially within the Jaara Community. This exhibition contrasts the early inhabitants’ perspective with the 19th-century European understanding of stones and geology.
Works by artists like Arthur Streeton and Louis Buvelot highlight the dynamic landscapes of Central Victoria, while contemporary artists explore themes of ritual, geometry and memory. Historical maps and rock collections further ground the exhibition in the physical world, introducing viewers to the concept of deep time and the ever-evolving planet.
Art Collections at Castlemaine Art Museum
Castlemaine Art Museum houses over 6,000 artworks, including 1,600 paintings, prints, and works on paper, with a focus on Australian artists. Its social-historical collection features textiles, furniture, and artefacts from the Goldfields era, alongside cultural items like architectural ornaments, municipal documents, and personal correspondence from notable Australian patrons and artists.
Planning your visit to Castlemaine Art Museum
Before visiting Castlemaine, make early preparations to make the most of your trip. Here are the things to consider to avoid inconveniences and ensure your travel is successful and memorable.
Visiting the Museum: How to Get There and When to Visit
Castlemaine Art Museum is located along 14 Lyttleton Street, a few steps from the Castlemaine Post Office on Barker Street. Depending on your starting point, you can get to the museum by train, bus, or car. The V/L Bendigo train line is the most convenient for you to stop at Castlemaine, where you can take a five-minute walk from the train station to the museum.
While you can visit the town any time of the year, the best time to visit Castlemaine, VIC, is during autumn (March – May) and spring (September – November), when the weather is mild and perfect for indoor explorations and nearby scenic attractions.
Ticket Prices and Amenities
- Free entry (Donations are welcomed)
- Amenities:
- Guided tours
- Giftshop
- Restroom is available
- Opening hours: Thursday – Saturday (11 AM – 4 PM), Sunday (12 PM – 4 PM)
Recommended Place to Stay in Castlemaine
If you plan to visit Castlemaine, especially during the peak seasons, you must book your accommodation early. Some of the best guest houses are those close to the town’s attractions and offer the best amenities and comfort. At Castlemaine Boutique Accommodation, we have a wide range of well-appointed guest rooms, from modern luxury apartments to rustic cottages, each offering a memorable stay experience. Contact us today to check out the available guest rooms before planning your visit.
