Adam Cullen (1965-2012) was one of the most important Australian artists of his generation. Emerging from Sydney's grunge art scene in the 1990s and best known for his bold and challenging paintings, Cullen and controversy courted each other.

Over a decade since the artist’s death, rarely seen works will be on display at Manly Art Gallery & Museum from 13 October to 3 December.

In this retrospective exhibition, over 70 rarely seen paintings, works on paper, bronzes, ceramics, film footage, and artist books have been drawn largely from private collections.

The colourful and complex artist, who grew up on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, famously won the Archibald Prize in 2000 for his portrait of actor David Wenham. In 2002, he represented Australia at the 25th Biennale de São Paulo.  

Cullen’s bold and challenging paintings are insightful and often confronting, reflecting on contemporary societal issues. His works revolve around issues of national and gendered identity, addressing racial intolerance, bigotry, sexism, and political and social hypocrisies.

Just over ten years since Adam Cullen’s death, this exhibition is an opportunity to reflect on the artist’s extraordinary body of work and his influence and legacy. Max Germanos of 3:33 Art Projects developed this retrospective exhibition with the support of the Adam Cullen Estate and Manly Art Gallery & Museum.

Adam Cullen: Art is Pain Relief
13 October – 3 December 2023
Manly Art Gallery & Museum
West Esplanade Reserve, Manly NSW 2095
Open Tue – Sun, 10am – 5pm (closed Mondays & Public Holidays)
Free entry

Exhibition Opening
Friday 13 October, 6 – 8pm

Friends of MAG&M and Volunteers’ Preview
Friday 13 October, 10 – 11am

Life and Legacy of Adam Cullen
Sun 22 October, 2 – 3pm
Join Max Germanos and Jasper Knight for an informal discussion on the life, times and legacy of Adam Cullen, hosted by MAG&M’s Senior Curator Katherine Roberts.

For more information visit www.magm.com.au