Fifty years ago, a long-haired National Art School graduate driving a mini moke was appointed Art teacher at Dubbo South High School. The art room was next door to the headmaster’s office, Art 1! Fifty years on many of those students as well as students from Mr Mackie’s other teaching appointments – Fairfield & Maclean High Schools – are exhibiting their original and new works at The Old Kirk, Yamba Museum, opening at 5pm Friday October 18.
In 1977 works from four of Mr Mackie’s Dubbo students were chosen to exhibit at the NSW Department of Education’s Annual Art Exhibition, out of 200 in the whole of NSW. A huge accomplishment bringing acknowledgment of his teaching skills.
It is a testament to the respect and love Graham Mackie’s students have for him that many still keep in regular contact, also sending him their works for comment, and he doesn’t hold back!
“There will be an indeterminable amount of art on display, eclectic and interesting. A visual show of 250 slides will run, you may even see yourself there.” said Graham.
The idea first came to him 8 years ago to showcase his students works but many lacked interest. Then came Covid. When Graham recently approached his students there was an overwhelming acceptance and the groundswell of art came forward. “I’ve even driven to Dubbo to collect pieces”.
When asked were there any standouts he was in deep thought “absolute standouts, about 20. These people had gone on to make their lives in the creative art field – artists, photography, fashion, sculpture, graphic design, film and TV.” Graham continued: “Works on display from my standouts will be from Mariella Gussoni, Chantelle and Ben Kirby, Jack Randell (his large murals can be seen at the Dubbo zoo), Leigh McGrath (renowned for his film work on The Bill, Home & Away, Netflix and Stan). I gave him an 8mm camera to get started. Michelle Fleming, John Howland, Marcus Greig and Ben Ross to name a few”.
Graham respectfully added, “I am dedicating this exhibition to one of my most amazingly talented students who tragically passed, Michael Muggleton”
“Everyone is excited to gather together and who knows what will come out of this, it’s the first time this concept has been done showcasing their talents and development. It would be fabulous for the ‘Art 1 Exhibition’ at The Old Kirk to be a stepping stone for a major exhibition at a Regional Gallery.
Graham has a strong Rugby connection with his old teammates from Macquarie University. This group formed the GOATS, Gentlemen of Art Touring Society, and are ever present at his exhibitions in appropriate costume attire of the event. They are an attraction in themselves and guarantee fun and frivolity.
Gai Pritchett