As a student who spent twelve formative years at Carey, I could never have imagined that the open quadrangle – once filled with the scent of the chemistry laboratory and the sounds of daily school life – would one day become a sophisticated contemporary gallery.
Yet this July, that very space, now the Jeffrey O Thomas Quad, will host the sixty-first Camberwell Art Show, marking a remarkable convergence of tradition, community and excellence.
For those who remember the quadrangle as a simple thoroughfare between classes, its transformation is symbolic. Carey has always valued growth, vision and adaptation. To see the once-open grounds enclosed and elevated into a modern exhibition venue capable of hosting one of Australia’s most respected art shows is both nostalgic and inspiring.
The Art Show will begin with the Gala Opening Cocktail Evening and Awards Presentation on Friday July 3 – an elegant and celebratory occasion that sets the tone for the week ahead. The exhibition opens to the public on Saturday July 4, welcoming art lovers, collectors and families into the transformed space. The exhibition closes on Sunday July 11.
A highlight for the Carey community will be a special evening featuring complimentary admission along with wine and cheese – an opportunity for students, parents, staff and alumni to gather, reconnect and enjoy the exhibition in a relaxed setting. It is a fitting acknowledgment of Carey’s role in hosting this significant cultural event.
The enduring success of the Camberwell Art Show lies in its reputation. Over more than six decades, it has established itself as a premier large-scale art exhibition on Australia’s cultural calendar. This is reflected in a consistent commitment to excellence, rigorous standards and a dedication to both artists and patrons. This reputation also attracts strong corporate and community support.
Behind the scenes, an experienced management system ensures the efficient and fair assessment and selection of works, maintaining the high calibre of the exhibition. The show is underpinned by the extraordinary efforts of the Camberwell Rotary Club, supported by a dedicated network of volunteers. Their work is a powerful reminder that community-driven initiatives, guided by clear purpose and leadership, can achieve outcomes of national significance.
Since its inception, more than $5 million has been raised to support local, national and international humanitarian projects. Proceeds from this year’s event will again contribute to a wide range of charitable, educational and humanitarian causes. Each artwork sold and each ticket purchased helps deliver meaningful impact.
For Carey, hosting this event is more than a logistical achievement - it reflects a commitment to community engagement, artistic excellence and service. Personally, it represents a full-circle moment. What was once a simple courtyard now stands as a gallery of possibility - an evolution that reflects Carey's proud history and enduring spirit.