An exhibition featuring a unique collection of artworks, gifted to Gough and Margaret Whitlam in 1979, will be shared with the public at National Archives of Australia in Canberra.

The collection, first unveiled at the Whitlam Institute, in Western Sydney University in June 2019, will be on display from Friday 30 June.

Dedicated to the Dedicated: Whitlam, the Arts and Democracy, includes works by John Olsen, Brett Whiteley, Lloyd Rees, John Coburn, Arthur Boyd and more. Featured, is the original 'Whitlam's folio', inscribed with a message of thanks to Gough and Margaret Whitlam for ‘the marks they have made on the Australian canvas'.

Whitlam Institute Director, John Juriansz, said 'The Whitlam Institute is delighted to share this extraordinary collection with the people of Canberra. Whitlam's belief in a more confident and independent cultural identity for Australia is as relevant as ever. This Australian-first exhibition underscores why a thriving artistic community is important for a healthy democracy.'

The Whitlams' Folio is one of around 37,000 items in the Whitlam Prime Ministerial Collection, which is unsurpassed by any other in Australia. This exhibition also documents how Gough Whitlam viewed the arts as a fundamental human right and a precondition for a healthy democracy. In his words, 'A society in which the arts flourish is a society in which every human value can flourish.'

Dedicated to the Dedicated has never been seen before in Canberra. Director-General of National Archives, Simon Froude says it's a privilege to be hosting this unique and beautiful exhibition.

'Whether you are into political or art history, or are a lover of Australian art, this exhibition not only highlights both Gough and Margaret's support for creative Australians, but also the impact their work had on the hearts of the arts community.'

'I'm very much looking forward to sharing this with our local community and visitors to our nation's capital.'

The exhibition and its associated events will commence on Friday 30 June to run until 29 October 2023.

Dedicated to the Dedicated: Whitlam, the Arts and Democracy, is a touring exhibition of The Whitlam Institute within Western Sydney University.

For more information visit:

Dedicated to the Dedicated: Whitlam, the Arts and Democracy | naa.gov.au

Interviews available upon request