The Johnstone Galleries

A Night in the JOL is a brilliant informative free event that is always worth fronting up for and this month’s talk about Brisbane’s iconic The Johnstone Galleries is no exception.

From 1950-72 The Johnstone Gallery operated in Brisbane, a pivotal time in Australia for the development of an a contemporary art audience and through the years it represented the leading Australian artists of the time including Sidney Nolan, Charles Blackman, Margaret Olley, Arthur Boyd, Ray Crooke and Donald Friend.

The forces behind the galleries, owners Brian and Marjorie Johnstone were leading lights in Brisbane’s theatrical and social scene and renowned for their friendliness, warmth, exacting taste and brilliant exhibition openings.

When the galleries had permanently closed Marjorie bequeathed the records of the gallery to State Library of Queensland where they remain priceless resources of Queensland art.

In the night at the JOL, ABC’s Ian Townsend leads the fascinating discussion with gallerist and former Assistant Director of the Johnstone Gallery Victor Mace, and Simon Elliott, Assistant Director Curatorial and Educational Services, National Gallery of Australia. Bookings essential