We are excited to present our Cunningham Dax Collection show for 2021 – Creature Comfort

Humans have an important and timeless relationship with animals.  Whether it is an appreciation for the majesty of wild creatures or the unconditional love of a furry companion, animals can be a wonderful source of support for our mental wellbeing. 

Artists across the millennia have shown their appreciation for animals – ancient Egyptians honoured cats through painting, mosaics, sculpture and more, while the famous Lascaux Cave art in southern France gives an insight into how essential animals were to Palaeolithic culture.  Devotion to our four-legged friends is abundant in modern art, with Picasso, Andy Warhol, and David Hockney all dedicating many hours to portraying their beloved ‘sausage’ dogs. 

The Cunningham Dax Collection’s rich source of animal imagery show that many artists with lived experience of mental health issues also found animals to be deserving of their artistic attention.  Creature Comfort is our way of saying thank-you to our non-human supporters for their love, companionship, beauty and inspiration. 

This exciting and diverse exhibition opens at The Dax Centre on Sunday 28th of February 2021.

You can find information on visiting The Dax Centre, including our COVID-19 safety measures here

Creature Comfort – Art Making Workshops

Join us for an afternoon of art making, self-care and connection!

As part of our current exhibition Creature Comfort join Bec Knaggs in The Dax Centre studio for a relaxed afternoon of art making, self-care and connection.

This experiential workshop is an opportunity to develop & explore our connection with the animal realm, using art making, healthy self-expression and self-reflection as a tool for ongoing personal mental health and well-being.

Where: The Dax Centre

30 Royal Parade, Kenneth Myer Building, University of Melbourne, Parkville

When: Sunday March 28th

Time: 12.00pm – 2.30pm

What to bring: All materials will be provided, please bring along an object that represents your connection to/with a particular animal.

Cost: $75 per person or $65 per person if booking for two or more

Max group size: 6 people

Find out more and book into a workshop

FREE Guided Tours

Starting Friday March 5th, every Friday for the month of March we will be offering FREE guided tours of the Creature Comfort exhibition at The Dax Centre.

⁠Our Curator and Collections Manager, Julia Young will share insights into the artworks and the stories of those who created them.⁠

Times:

Tours will run on Fridays starting at 1.00pm and go for 45 minutes.⁠

⁠Important:

The tours are free but you must register in advance.⁠ Group sizes are limited.

Book in for a free guided tour

We look forward to seeing you at The Dax Centre!