This summer Manly by Ferry presents a fascinating pictorial history of the beloved Manly ferries, as a free exhibition at Manly Art Gallery and Museum (MAG&M).

Back by popular demand, this exhibition celebrates a quintessential Sydney icon and reveals insights into its evolution across the decades.

Drawing from MAG&M’s photography, painting, and museum collections, the exhibition explores the inherent duality of these much-loved vessels as they balance carrying care-free day-trippers and busy local commuters, across boisterous swells and peaceful waters.

Featuring photographs by Max Dupain, Frank Hurley, and Frank Bell that typify nostalgic scenes of Manly Wharf and Manly Cove, the iconic Manly ferries make a fascinating subject.

Northern Beaches Mayor Michael Regan said the Manly ferry is not only a mode of transport but part of our local folklore on the Northern Beaches.

“Immortalised in art, music, and literature, the Manly ferry is embedded into the cultural fabric of Sydney and has long evoked all kinds of emotions and imagery so it’s no surprise this popular exhibition has returned.

“For over 140 years, artists have captured the Manly ferry journeying across Sydney Harbour in all its ever-changing moods. Through seasons and across generations, the Manly ferry’s to-ing and fro-ing has set a familiar rhythm in the life of the city,” Mayor Regan said.

Part of the ‘Treasures from the Vault’ series, this exhibition is designed to reveal some of the rich history and stories of Manly, and of the artists themselves who called this part of Sydney home.

As part of the exhibition, there is also an opportunity for members of the public to come and share their memories of Manly Ferries as stories in a special event hosted by the exhibition curator.

‘Treasures from the Vault’ features works acquired through MAG&M Society, the Theo Batten Bequest, Northern Beaches Council, and the artists and donors through the Australian Government’s Cultural Gifts Program.

Highlights: Photography by Max Dupain, Frank Hurley, and Frank Bell that capture distinct scenes of Manly Wharf and Manly Cove. Historical signage ‘Seven miles from Sydney and a thousand miles from care! Tourist brochures and memorabilia plus posters featuring the famous SS South Steyne. Watercolours depicting scenes of Manly Cove and paddle steamers in the late 19th century. Paintings by marine artists Robert Carter and Charles Bryant, plus contemporary works by Nick Hollo, Peter Kingston, Wendy Sharpe reveal changing moods of the Harbour.

MAG&M Society Exhibition Preview, Fri 9 Dec, 10-11am, Free event RSVP via MAG&M Society Eventbrite(Opens in a new window)

Manly by Ferry Exhibition Re - Opening, Fri 9 Dec, 6 - 8pm, Free event RSVP via MAG&M Eventbrite

Click here to learn more about the exhibition. Click here to experience the Children’s Exhibition Trail and view Exhibition Catalogue online.      

Manly Art Gallery & Museum

West Esplanade Reserve, Manly NSW 2095

Open Tue – Sun, 10am – 5pm (closed Mondays & Public Holidays)

Free entry

T: 02 9976 1421 

E: artgallery@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au

Instagram: @magamnsw

www.magam.com.au