Margaret Olley: Australian Intimiste 2026

Margaret Olley: Australian Intimiste 2026
So, Margaret Olley.
(I simply lost my words.) Let's let Margaret's art talk to us.

As one of Australia's most beloved painters and a National Art School alum, Olley's legacy comes alive in this exhibition — bringing together over sixty of her works alongside pieces by her NAS friends, teachers and peers. It has to be shared with our art lovers.
Let's experience Margaret Olley: Australian Intimiste at the National Art School Gallery, and explore the historic Darlinghurst Gaol setting that houses it.

A huge thanks to our curator Katrina, who has generously offered to guide us on a private art tour.

Itinerary:
11:30 am – Meet the Group
Venue: NAS Gallery Entrance, National Art School, Forbes Street & Burton Street, Darlinghurst
We'll gather, introduce ourselves and meet fellow members before beginning our gallery experience.

11:45 am – Coffee & Conversation
Venue: Nearby café (own arrangement — NAS Gallery does not have an on-site café)
Enjoy a relaxed coffee and casual conversation before exploring the Gallery.
Coffee and refreshments are optional and at our own expense.

12:15 pm – Margaret Olley: Australian Intimiste (Free Admission)

Discover Margaret Olley's six-decade career through the lens of intimisme — her interiors, floral arrangements, antiques and domestic objects — alongside works by Jean Bellette, Russell Drysdale, Tony Tuckson and other NAS contemporaries, plus Sir William Dobell's 1948 Archibald-winning portrait of Olley.

Take your time exploring the exhibition, discussing favourite artworks and sharing different perspectives with fellow members.
No ticket required — admission is free.

1:15 pm – Lunch Together
Venue: Local café/eatery near the National Art School
We'll reunite for lunch to share our favourite discoveries from the morning, exchange ideas and enjoy great conversation.
Lunch is optional.

2:15 pm – Continue Exploring
After lunch, we are free to enjoy the Gallery at their own pace. You may wish to:

• Revisit the exhibition and favourite artworks
• Explore the historic NAS Gallery building (former A-Wing cell block of Darlinghurst Gaol)
• Browse the accompanying exhibition publication
• Continue conversations with fellow members

There is no rush, we love unhurried wandering.

3:00 pm – Event Concludes

What to Bring

• A bottle of water
• Comfortable walking shoes
• A camera or phone (where photography is permitted)
• Your curiosity and love of art

Dress Code:
Feeling Artistic

Please Note

• AAA Art Lovers Australia event is FREE to join.
• Admission to Margaret Olley: Australian Intimiste is free — no ticket required.
• Participants are responsible for their own coffee, lunch and any personal purchases.
• Please arrive at least 10 minutes early to allow time for introductions.
• If your plans change, please update your RSVP as soon as possible.
• Everyone is welcome — no art background is required, only curiosity, respect and a willingness to enjoy art together.

Terms & Conditions
By attending this event, you acknowledge and agree that:

• Participation is voluntary and at your own risk.
• Members are responsible for their own transport, meals and personal expenses.
• The organiser accepts no responsibility for any loss, damage or injury during the event.
• Please respect Gallery staff, artworks, venue rules and fellow visitors.
• Photography is permitted only where authorised by the Gallery.
• The itinerary may be adjusted if required due to operational or unforeseen circumstances.
• By participating in this event, you accept these Terms & Conditions.