Legendary comic book character The Phantom will take over Bundaberg Regional Art Gallery this summer with all exhibition spaces filled with original artwork, rare memorabilia, and interactive activities sure to delight fans young and old of ‘The Ghost Who Walks’.
Phantom: Off the Drawing Board will celebrate the almost 90-year history of Lee Falk’s iconic creation and the 75th anniversary of The Phantom, while it showcases the Australian illustrators who have helped keep the character so popular in Australia, including the region's own Phantom illustrator Shane Foley.
This exclusive exhibition, supported by Australian publisher of The Phantom Frew Publications and curated by Bundaberg Regional Galleries, offers the region’s art lovers and comic book fans a unique opportunity to see original illustrations, vintage comic covers, and rare collectibles.
Bundaberg Regional Council Arts, Culture and Events portfolio spokesperson Councillor John Learmonth said the exhibition was a coup for Bundaberg.
“It’s so exciting to have an exhibition of this calibre at Bundaberg Regional Art Gallery,” Cr Learmonth said.
“Comic book fans and pop culture lovers won’t want to miss this chance to see these original artworks and rare items of memorabilia.
“The exhibition will also give visitors exclusive behind-the-scenes insights into the creative minds that bring The Phantom to life.”
Original artworks by Phantom artists Sy Barry, Wilson McCoy, Keith Chatto, Glenn Ford, Peter Chapman, Shane Foley, and Paul Mason will be featured in the exhibition, along with original strips and comics, Skull and Good Mark rings, and Papua New Guinea Warrior Shields that figure The Phantom.
Opening night of Phantom: Off the Drawing Board will be on Friday 17 November from 5.30 pm.
Phantom Phenomenon
To celebrate the launch of the exhibition, the Gallery will hold a special public event on Saturday 18 November, Phantom Phenomenon.
Superhero fans are encouraged to cosplay as their favourite character and celebrate all things comic book as they step into the extraordinary world of The Phantom.
The Phantom Phenomenon will feature artist talks and signings with Frew Publications, Bundaberg-based illustrator of The Phantom Shane Foley, Kid Phantom Queensland illustrator Paul Mason, collector Paul Moloney, and artists from the Phantom response exhibition, as well as exclusive merchandise and comic book stalls.
Phantom Response
In a complimentary exhibition in gallery two, The Phantom Response brings together a diverse group of artists who each responded to The Phantom’s iconic persona through their own art style.
The artists chosen for The Phantom Response have identified a connection with the character and the exhibition celebrates the enduring inspiration of ‘The Ghost Who Walks’ for artists across generations.
The Phantom Response will feature artworks from Reg Mombassa, Brian Robinson, Dylan Sarra, Todd Fuller, Shane Foley, Leah Emery, Malki Studio, Jennifer McDuff, and Cate Verney.
Don't miss the opportunity to own one of these unique artworks, with most works in The Phantom Response available for purchase.
Phantom: Off the Drawing Board
18 November 2023 – 4 February 2024
Bundaberg Regional Art Gallery, Gallery One
Opening event: Friday 17 November, 5.30 pm
Phantom Phenomenon
Saturday 18 November
Bundaberg Regional Art Gallery
9:30am – 2pm
The Phantom Response
18 November 2023 – 4 February 2024
Bundaberg Regional Art Gallery, Gallery Two
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