The Moree Portraits exhibition includes three series of photographs of locals past and present by prominent artists Michael Riley, John Williams, and Greg Weight.

Young Jay Roberts moved around the room looking for family members amongst the portraits, while Maria Cutmore spent a little time with her grandmother with whom she shares a remarkable likeness. 

“We wanted this exhibition to reflect the history, our residents and their experiences living in Moree,” Moree Plains gallery curator Hannah Williamson said.  “In preparation for this exhibition, we looked through the Gallery’s collection of portraits of local residents and these three photographic series stood out.”

“Each body of work is unique yet all provide an insight into Moree’s diverse community.”

An interactive feature of the exhibition was a map of Moree where guests were invited to place a red spot sticker on their favourite Moree location.

While these photographs are a beautiful tribute to their subjects, they are by no means representative of the entire town,” Hannah said. 

“We wanted all visitors to the gallery to be able to make their mark on the exhibition, through placing stickers on personally significant sites in town.”

Moree Plains Gallery’s primary focus is contemporary Aboriginal art and this is reflected in their permanent collection and programming.

“As a major cultural institution in town, we see our role as promoting and supporting Aboriginal art and artists.

“NAIDOC week is the perfect occasion to celebrate our local Kamilaroi community and thank them for their cultural contributions to both the gallery and the town as a whole.”

The Moree Plains Gallery are currently finalising the next exhibition, a photography showcase by NSW artist, Carolyn Young, titled Grassy Woodlands.

The Gallery is also hosting a Spring Fling on the first Saturday of September, musician Hester Fraser will be performing in concert at the event.