Nearly 700 visitors have already made their way to the Muswellbrook Regional Gallery for the Archibald Prize 2025 Touring Exhibition, marking a major cultural moment for the Upper Hunter.
The gallery is the only venue in the Hunter to host the full suite of 57 Archibald finalists, providing rare local access to Australia’s most celebrated portrait prize. The exhibition runs until March 7 and is free to attend.
Muswellbrook Mayor Jeff Drayton says the response reflects the growing reputation of the gallery and its importance to the region’s cultural life.
“Hosting the Archibald Prize in Muswellbrook as the only Hunter gallery is a significant achievement for our community. We are seeing visitors travel from Newcastle, Sydney and all over the Hunter,” he said.
Gallery Director Elissa Emerson says the exhibition has been embraced strongly by locals and visitors alike.
“To have all 57 Archibald finalists in our Gallery is incredibly special. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, and we’re thrilled to see such strong attendance,” she said.
Visitors can vote in the People’s Choice Award, with one voter to win a $500 prize. The Muswellbrook Young Archie competition is also on display, highlighting artworks from talented local children and teenagers.
The exhibition arrives during a milestone year for the Muswellbrook Regional Gallery as it celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2026.
