Benevolent Living's Long Gallery is thrilled to unveil 1866: Derek Lamb x Hanbing Lu, a special exhibition that celebrates the history and evolution of The Rockhampton Benevolent Society, now known as Benevolent Living. This exhibition offers a captivating journey through time, bringing the Society’s rich legacy to life through the eyes of two talented artists, Derek Lamb and Hanbing Lu.
Reimagining the Past Through Art
Derek Lamb and Hanbing Lu have created a bespoke series of artworks that respond directly to the early history of the Benevolent Society. Their work is a fusion of creativity and historical exploration, deeply rooted in extensive research of archival materials housed at CQUniversity’s Capricornia Central Queensland Collection. The archives include an impressive range of historical photographs, documents, and oral histories that provide a window into the past.
Through their careful research, Derek and Hanbing have crafted a series of pieces that reflect the humble beginnings of the Benevolent Society, offering a unique interpretation of the challenges and triumphs that defined the institution’s early years.
A Glimpse into Benevolent’s Early History
The Rockhampton Benevolent Society was founded in 1866, with the aim of providing support and care for those in need in the growing regional city of Rockhampton. At a time when social welfare was limited, the Society’s founders envisioned a place where the elderly, the poor, and those with health challenges could find refuge and care.
The earliest days of the Society were marked by significant community support. Volunteers and local residents played a crucial role, whether through donations, fundraising events, or offering their time to assist those in need. In the late 1800s, the Society’s leaders relied heavily on the generosity of local business owners, whose financial contributions helped expand the homes and care programs. These early foundations, built on compassion and the sense of community, have become an essential part of the institution’s legacy.
The exhibition’s art pieces, including those by Lamb and Lu, speak to the spirit of this early support and the resilience of the community that helped to create Benevolent Living as we know it today.
The Artists’ Vision
Derek Lamb and Hanbing Lu’s work blends traditional techniques with modern sensibilities. The exhibition features a striking combination of letterpress print, watercolour, oil painting, and drawing.
The artists drew inspiration from archival photographs that document early residents of the Benevolent Homes, along with preserved Meeting Minutes and personal accounts shared by those who lived and worked at the Society. Their artworks explore not only the physical spaces of the Homes but also the personal stories of the individuals who were touched by its services. Through their eyes, we are invited to see the Society's history as more than just a series of events, but a living, breathing story of community, care, and support.
The Intersection of History and Art
1866: Derek Lamb x Hanbing Lu doesn’t just celebrate the history of Benevolent Living, it brings this history to life in a way that invites reflection. As visitors move through the exhibition, they will encounter scenes and symbols that represent key moments from the Society’s past: the expansion of the Homes, the stories of those who found refuge within its walls, and the vision of the founders who created it all. The combination of history and art provides a rich, immersive experience that speaks to both the past and the present.
For example, one of the standout pieces in the exhibition is a series of watercolours that depict early photographs of residents in the Homes first building. These delicate yet vibrant paintings bring these historic images into the present, inviting viewers to reflect on the humanity and dignity of the people who lived there. Another piece, an intricately detailed letterpress print, features excerpts from the early founding documents of the Society, including some tongue-in-cheek references to some of the more humorous inclusions in the official minutes and yearly reports.
The Official Opening: A Celebration of History and Creativity
We invite you to join us for the official opening of 1866 in the Long Gallery, where art and history collide in a celebration of Benevolent Living’s remarkable legacy. This exhibition is not only a chance to reflect on the past, but also an opportunity to celebrate the community-driven efforts that have allowed Benevolent Living to continue its work in the region.
As we step into the future, we honor our roots—remembering the founders, the donors, and the residents who helped shape the story of Benevolent Living. Their contributions continue to resonate in the work of Derek Lamb and Hanbing Lu, whose artistic expressions bring new life to our shared history.
Join Us in the Long Gallery
Come and experience 1866: Derek Lamb x Hanbing Lu, a remarkable exhibition that fuses history, art, and community. Take a moment to reflect on the transformative journey of the Rockhampton Benevolent Society, and see how these talented artists have reimagined the past through their work. The opening promises to be an afternoon filled with conversation, creativity, and a deeper connection to the rich history of Benevolent Living.
🗓 See you in the Long Gallery!
Opening Event Details:
8th February from 2pm
Benevolent Living's Long Gallery, 60 West St, The Range, QLD, 4700.
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