Artwork in image: Graeme Doyle, Untitled, undated, pen and coloured pencil on paper, 36 x 27 cm
Artwork in image: Peter Wegner, Medicated Man, 2017, oil on board, 31 x 28 cm. Private Collection
GRAEME DOYLE - medicated man
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3 May 2023 – 22 March 2024
‘I’ve taken more out of schizophrenia than it’s taken from me.’ - Graeme Doyle
Graeme Doyle (1947- 2021) was a prolific artist, musician, poet, and performer. Doyle, who lived with schizophrenia, is an intriguing figure in the landscape and history of Australian art. Collaborating with portrait artist Peter Wegner, Doyle appeared in numerous guises, revealing his vulnerability as a subject and the impact of his illness. Doyle’s own artwork was uncompromising and thought-provoking, challenging people's perceptions and confronting them with hard truths. He was an early advocate for the reduction of stigma and education of complex mental health issues, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire and inform.
Schizophrenia affects approximately 1% of the population and is one of the most misunderstood and stigmatising mental health issues in society. It can be debilitating and damaging to people's lives without support strategies. However, with the right supports and care, people with the illness can thrive in society, as demonstrated by the life and art of Graeme Doyle. The Cunningham Dax Collection, which features over 80 of Doyle's works, only scratches the surface of the breadth and depth of his practice. For Doyle, art making was an integral part of who he was, his health, and his connection to society and its creative history. Featuring portraits of Doyle by Wegner, Graeme Doyle - medicated man traces the evolution of Doyle as an artist. The Dax Centre is proud to present his work and continue the joint purpose of education and stigma reduction.
Creative Sanctuary
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In a world that can feel overwhelming at times there is a place that exists within us all that can offer respite, renewal, and hope. Creativity is a portal to the realm of the imagination, through it we can find solace, inspiration or be transported to faraway places.
By engaging in a creative act, in whatever form that may take, we can access an inner world which allows us to connect with ourselves deeply and honestly, explore our potential, discover new and different ways to express ourselves and bring our dreams and ideas to life.
Through creativity, as a viewer or maker, we can be transported to incredible places - places we have been, places we would like to go or places we can only imagine.
Creativity can be a sanctuary, every brushstroke, note, word or movement can be a meditation and a celebration of our own creative potential.
Featuring paintings, drawings and sculptures, Creative Sanctuary showcases eight artists from the Cunningham Dax Collection who have found solace and inspiration in their own creative sanctuaries. Their works invite us to step into their world and experience the power of creativity to transform, transport and heal.
Exhibiting Artists: Isabella Duncan, Jacqueline King, Carla Krijt, Emma Mcvoy, Rosa Niran, NEG, Renee Sutton and Elizabeth Turnbull
Artwork: Isabella Duncan, Ophelia, 1998, acrylic on canvas, 175 x 144 cm. From the Cunningham Dax Collection
Opening hours
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You are welcome to view our exhibitions during gallery opening hours, there is no need to book and entry is free. For groups and guided tour enquiries please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or find out more about our learning programs
Gallery open hours:
Wednesday to Friday - 11.00am to 3.30pm
30 Royal Parade, Parkville
The Dax Centre acknowledges the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as traditional custodians of the land on which it operates. We pay respect to Elders past, present and emerging, and value the rich history, unbroken culture and ongoing connection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to country. The Dax Centre values diversity. We are committed to proving a safe, culturally appropriate, and inclusive service for all people, regardless of their ethnicity, faith, disability, sexuality, or gender identity.
© The Dax Centre. All rights reserved.
SANE is a public company limited by guarantee and registered tax-exempt charity with DGR (Deductible Gift Recipient) status.
Charity ABN 92 006 533 606. Donations of $2 or more are tax deductible. SANE, PO Box 1226, Carlton VIC 3053.