A Generous Life examines the legacy and influence of much-loved Australian artist, Margaret Olley (1923–2011) who spent a formative part of her career in Brisbane. A charismatic character, she exerted a lasting impact on many artists as a mentor and friend and was also a muse for artists including William Dobell and Jeffrey Smart. The exhibition will profile a life that was immersed in art – her own and those she supported.

Discover more about Margaret Olley with our extensive range of related events listed below.  From talks and  tours, to pop-up performances and hand-on workshops, there’s sure to be something for you.  The gallery also offers free, daily guided tours of the exhibition at 11:00 am (from 17 June).

Head to GOMA on Saturday 15 June for a jam-packed opening day of special events. Hear Dame Quentin Bryce and Philip Bacon reflect on their long friendship with the artist. Take an exhibition tour with our curator, Michael Hawker.  And, in the afternoon, enjoy a beautiful performance by the Bentley Strings Quartet of music that inspired Olley.

For those who prefer to experience GOMA at night, the gallery’s popular Up Late series returns in August.

The accompanying publication Margaret Olley: A Generous Life is available online or in store. This richly illustrated 208pp publication pays tribute to Olley’s art, friendships and philanthropy, and demonstrates her ongoing legacy.

Image credits:
1: Margaret Olley / Australia, b.1923 / Lemons and oranges 1964 / Oil on composition board 76.6 × 102cm / Purchased 1964 / Collection: Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art, Brisbane
2: Margaret Olley / Australia, b. 1923 / (Bananas from the garden, Farndon) 1974–75 / Oil on board / 79 × 110cm / Donated through the Australian Government’s Cultural Gifts Program by Wayne Kratzmann (Brisbane), 2014 / Collection: Tweed Regional Gallery
3: Margaret Olley / Australia, b. 1923 / Bedroom still life 1997 / Oil on board / 61 × 91cm / Purchased by Maitland / Art Gallery Society, 1998 / Collection: Maitland Regional Art Gallery
4: Margaret Olley / Australia, b.1923 / Childers Garden 1956 / Watercolour on paper / 55 × 77cm / Private collection
5: Margaret Olley / Australia, b.1923 / Yellow Room triptych 2007 / Oil on board / 138 × 290cm / Purchased through The Yellow Room Appeal 2013 / Collection: New England Regional Art Museum