Please note: Bendigo Art Gallery opens Tuesday - Sunday from 10:00am - 5:00pm. 

The story of Ned Kelly and the art he inspires

Ned Kelly remains a highly mythologised character in Australian history. Some say he was a murderous villain and outlaw, while others proclaim him a misunderstood folk hero – an Australian Robin Hood. The story of Ned Kelly and the Kelly Gang has long captured the imaginations of Australian artists, writers and filmmakers, and this exhibition allows us to consider the motivations of artists and their connection to this truly Australian narrative.

Imagining Ned presents the history and legend surrounding the Kelly gang through original artefacts, such as Kelly’s famous armour, letters, weaponry, associated ephemera and other historic items, as well as a survey of artistic output exploring images of Ned.

The most iconic artistic engagement with the legend of Ned Kelly is undoubtedly the work of celebrated Australian artist Sidney Nolan. The exhibition will feature a selection of Nolan’s important works alongside those of other artists such as Arthur Boyd, Adam Cullen, Juan Davila and Norman Lindsay. Literary references are also be included in the exhibition, including significant work by Peter Carey, and an excerpt of the first Australian feature film, The Story of the Kelly Gang, first screened in 1906.

Ticket prices

Adults $10
Concession/tertiary $8
Secondary $5
Primary free
Family (2+4) $25

Click here to purchase your tickets. 

In addition to the exhibition, there are other supporting programs and events about Ned, including NED: a new Australian musical, world premieres in Bendigo, performances are scheduled from the 22-31 May.

Click here to read more about Festival of Ned.

Image credit:

1st image (cropped): Sidney Nolan, Kelly 1946, enamel on cardboard, Collection, The Nolan Collection at Canberra Museum and Gallery is managed on behalf of the Australian Government

2nd image (cropped): Adam Cullen, Unforgiven (Ned Kelly and Constable Fitzpatrick) 2011 acrylic and ink on linen, Private collection, reproduced courtesy of the Estate of Adam Cullen and Michael Reid Art Gallery

3rd image: Sidney Nolan, Kelly in the bush 1945, enamel on cardboard. Collection, The Nolan Collection at Canberra Museum and Gallery is managed on behalf of the Australian Government

4th image (cropped): Suit of armour worn by Ned Kelly 1880, steel, leather, State Library of Victoria