This extraordinary showcase of artistic treasures from the vast collection of Matthias Arndt and Tiffany Wood will open its doors to the public on November 11.
This exhibition will feature more than 40 artworks and spotlight renowned international artists such as the UK’s Gilbert and George, German-born Joseph Beuys and iconic Spanish master Pablo Picasso.
Alongside these global icons, the collection will include pieces from contemporary Australian artists such as Del Kathryn Barton, David Noonan and Ben Quilty.
The ARNDT Collection: From One World to Another is a significant exhibition that reverberates with the profound passion for collecting art.
The collectors behind this remarkable exhibition expressed their enthusiasm.
“We are incredibly delighted to have the opportunity to present and share our profound love for art with the audience at the Shepparton Art Museum through this curated presentation of the ARNDT Collection,” they said.
“This exhibition comprises artworks that hold a special place in our hearts.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with this cutting-edge institution and its dedicated team to initiate a meaningful dialogue about art collecting and our experiences in the contemporary art realm over the past three decades.”
While select works from the collection have graced Arndt and Wood’s The Artbarn in Cape Schanck over the years, The ARNDT Collection: From One World to Another represents the first presentation of the collection within a public institution in Australia.
The exhibition will be prominently featured in the People’s Gallery on Level 2 and the ceramics showcase on Level 1 of the museum.
SAM chief executive Melinda Martin said SAM was thrilled to have the unique opportunity to present an exhibition of such exceptional international artwork “right here in Shepparton”.
“Matthias Arndt and Tiffany Wood have generously opened their private collection to the Shepparton community, affording us the privilege to partake in their passion for collecting, supporting and nurturing artists throughout their careers,” she said.
“We extend a warm invitation to everyone to relish the rare opportunity of experiencing this private collection by indulging in as many visits as they desire during its residency at SAM.”
SAM head of exhibitions and collections Jessica O’Farrell emphasised the personal touch in presenting the ARNDT Collection.
“In considering how best to exhibit the ARNDT Collection, we sought to convey the essence of Matthias and Tiffany as collectors throughout the exhibition,” she said.
“For example, a substantial selection of Picasso ceramics will be displayed in our Level 1 showcase adjacent to the café, where patrons can enjoy the works while enjoying their coffee.
“This approach allows us to mirror the collectors’ way of integrating these ceramics into their homes — seamlessly blending them into their communal spaces.”
Ms O’Farrell said this approach would allow the community to encounter these masterpieces from the ARNDT Collection as if they were in a relaxed and inviting environment with friends and family.
The ARNDT Collection: From One World to Another will officially open on November 11 at the Shepparton Art Museum.
Admission to this exhibition, as with all SAM exhibitions, is free.
