If you live in Newcastle or the surrounding areas and love animals and art then here’s some good news!

A wonderful exhibition of works inspired by Taronga Zoo from 20 of Australia’s most interesting painters will be on show at the University Gallery, Newcastle from Wednesday 20 July until 13 August 2011. The Lord Mayor of Newcastle John Tate will officially open the exhibition on Friday 22 July. Taronga Zoo Director Cameron Kerr, artists and animals from Taronga’s mobile zoo will also attend the launch.

The paintings, drawings, photographs and sculptures are the results of the three month artists’ residency at Taronga Zoo. Artists accessed the Zoo out of hours and enjoyed special experiences which afforded a unique opportunity to observe wildlife at close quarters, meet the Keepers and share with them their love of their animals. 

The work generated through the Artists in Residence program this year will be on display at the University Gallery from 20 July until 13 August.  Donated works will then be exhibited at the Byron Kennedy Hall in Sydney’s Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park, from Friday 19 August until Sunday 21 August. The auction, by Bonhams Australia, will be held on the afternoon of Sunday 21 August. All proceeds will support Taronga’s conservation projects.

The University Gallery hopes that all art and animal lovers will drop by and “visit the zoo” and enjoy this delightful exhibition. Exhibition Hours are from Wednesday to Saturday from 12 noon till 6.00pm. For Gallery details please click here.