“When we ask simple questions about money — what is it?
How is it created? Why is it valuable? — Art may have as much chance of approaching the truth as economics.”
– Tim Roxburgh, ABC Radio National
Manningham Art Gallery’s latest exhibition, Creative Accounting, explores ideas around money, economic systems, perceived value and the aesthetics of currency, at a time when money is becoming increasingly abstract.
Featuring work by Australian and international artists such as Fiona Hall, Andrew Hurle, Kenzee Patterson, Melanie Gilligan, Daniel McKewen, Ryan Presley and Penelope Cain, this thought-provoking exhibition promises to re-appraise an intrinsic component of contemporary living through art and artefact.
Among the historical items on display will be a collection of adding machines – first invented in 1642 and in widespread use from 1885. These machines are a reminder of the evolution of currency from the analogue to the digital era, with the possibility that in the future all money will be entirely virtual.
The exhibition also explores our personal relationship with money through objects such as convict love tokens. Made from defaced copper coins, convicts engraved enduring messages of love and remembrance for their families before being transported to Australia. These coins illustrate the value of human connection over material wealth.
Creative Accounting is curated by Holly Williams, in conjunction with Hawkesbury Regional Gallery and toured by Museums & Galleries of NSW.
This project is supported by Arts NSW’s Curatorial Support Initiative grant, a devolved funding program administered by Museums & Galleries of NSW on behalf of the NSW Government. This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council, its arts funding and advisory body.
Exhibition information
Wednesday 27 July – Saturday 3 September
Exhibition Opening
Wednesday 27 July, 6.00 pm – 8.00 pm
Public Programs
Curator Floor Talk
Thursday 28 July, 11.30 am
Join Holly Williams for a unique and engaging talk on the representation of money and economics in the visual arts.
Free event - Bookings essential on 9840 9382.
For Kids – Clay Piggy Banks
Saturday 27 August, 9.30 am – 11.00 am
Sculpt a bespoke ‘piggy’ in clay to store your hard earned pocket money.
For ages 6 – 12
Cost: $5 – Bookings essential on 9840 9382.
For more information, contact:
Manningham Art Gallery
Manningham City Square
687 Doncaster Road,
Doncaster VIC 3108
Opening Hours
Tuesday to Saturday, 11.00 am – 2.00 pm
Free admission
