Creative Acts: Artists and Their Inspirations

Step inside the unseen inner worlds of artists to discover the intense, sometimes otherworldly forces that drive creation in Creative Acts.

This bold exhibition at State Library Victoria features new commissions by visionary Australian creators alongside collection highlights from the Library that trace the spiritual connections, rituals and deeply personal quests behind artistic practice.

Experience how Joan Lindsay dreamt Picnic at Hanging Rock into being, how Howard Arkley's Tudor Village series was inspired by Melbourne's Fitzroy Gardens and how bohemian icon Vali Myers drew from her transcendent ties with animals.

Commissioned works include Peter Carey on True History of the Kelly Gang, Dr Chandrabhanu OAM's classical Odissi dance, Dr Deanne Gilson's painting sharing her Wadawurrung ancestors' Creation story, Barry William Hale's 9-metre automatic drawing and Bundit Puangthong's vivid mural of childhood and culture.

Where does creativity come from This timeless question is at the heart of the Library's latest exhibition

New commissions by 5 visionary Victorian artists invite us to put their methods under a microscope:

-:- Peter Carey sheds light on how he wrote True History of the Kelly Gang

-:- Dr Chandrabhanu OAM uncovers his magnum opus, Dasamahavidya, a classical Indian dance work that is the culmination of his decades-long practice

-:- Deanne Gilson shares her Wadawurrung ancestors' Creation story through a powerful new work, Bundjil Morrgalyu Turt Barram Murrup / Bundjil and the Evening Star Spirits

-:- Barry William Hale taps into the Library's collection of rare books on ancient magic and Surrealism to create a monumental automatic drawing

-:- Bundit Puangthong weaves together childhood stories, traditional Thai temple painting and Melbourne's graffiti culture influences in a new 12-metre painting.

Plan your visit today

Date
15 August 2025 - 31 May 2026
Free exhibition, no bookings required

Location
Victoria Gallery (entry via North Rotunda),
State Library Victoria
328 Swanston Street, Melbourne

Free exhibition






 State Library of Victoria View Venue
 328 Swanston Street Melbourne Victoria 3000 Map



Advertiser: www.slv.vic.gov.au

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