Florence Broadhurst’s legacy continues to inspire many across the world but much closer to home the designer’s work has inspired an exhibition at Bundaberg Regional Art Gallery.
The exclusive exhibition will showcase the works of the elusive Florence Broadhurst, a regional legend whose story continues more than three decades after her passing.
With a rich history throughout Bundaberg and surrounding regions, Florence was born at Mungy Station, near Mount Perry in 1899.
She would go on to lead an extraordinary life and become renowned for her flamboyance and creative approach to reinventing herself right up until her death in 1977.
Three years in the making, the exclusive Bundaberg exhibition has been specially curated by Bundaberg Regional Galleries Director Rebecca McDuff.
Its aim is to honour a woman of class, whose legacy is a design archive that is still making waves around the world today.
Rebecca said the curation of this exhibition held special personal meaning for her, with historic ties to Florence, making it a very exciting undertaking.
“When I started at the gallery seven years ago, I was intrigued by the pattern on the Barolin Street entrance to Bundaberg Regional Art Gallery,” Rebecca said.
“On learning it was the ‘Turnabouts’ pattern by well-known Australian designer, Florence Broadhurst, memories were triggered of stories from my grandmother about a ‘Flo Broadhurst’ from her years in Mount Perry.
“My curiosity was ignited, and for the last three years I have been curating this exhibition about Florence Broadhurst, and the role that this region played in moulding this creative, independent character whose designs and life are still talked about internationally today.”
Recognised as one of the world’s most influential post war designers, the exhibition will showcase a range of her works from fashion through to her world recognised wallpaper patterns.
“We have many different pieces from Florence’s collection that will be on show as part of the exhibition,” Rebecca said.
“It has been carefully curated to ensure that each piece tells a story about her influential life.”
Council’s Arts, Culture and Events portfolio spokesperson Cr John Learmonth said the exhibition was very exciting for the region, with the galleries team continuing to bring high quality exhibitions to the region.
“Our galleries team continue to work hard to bring exclusive exhibitions, such as Florence, to Bundaberg for our community to enjoy,” Cr Learmonth said.
“I encourage everyone to visit the exhibition as it is a great opportunity to see the exquisite works of the iconic Florence Broadhurst.”
In true Florence style, the Bundaberg Regional Galleries team invite the community to attend the Florence Cocktail Gala event for the launch of the exhibition.
