Penrith Regional Gallery — Attraction in Sydney

The Gallery site at Emu Plains was once a small rural holding on the banks of the Nepean River, part of the early settlement of the Nepean district. The original house, now known as the Lewers Gallery, was built in 1905. In 1942, Margo and Gerald Lewers – two leading artists in the development of modernism in Australian art – bought the property and made it their home and studio. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s it was known as a place of style, innovation and hospitality.

In 1955 architect Sydney Ancher designed some alterations to the original house, and in 1961 he designed a second house on the site. Known as Ancher House (and completed in 1964), this second building is a significant, rare example of collaboration between artist and architect. It is also the only example of Ancher’s work in Western Sydney. Interior decoration and detailing, including extensive mosaic work, was completed by Margo. The beautiful landscaped gardens and grounds were designed by both Margo and Gerald to complement the buildings, their artwork, the environment and their lifestyle.

Following Gerald’s death in 1962, Margo continued to live and work at Emu Plains until she died in 1978. In 1980 the Lewers daughters, Darani and Tanya, donated the site, buildings and gardens to Penrith City Council, together with a substantial collection of art including works by Gerald and Margo and their contemporaries. Their vision was to create a centre of excellence for the presentation and appreciation of art for the community.

From that time the Gallery has honoured the Lewers contribution and bequest by continuing to present exhibitions, education and workshop programs and special events of excellence, ambition and integrity. The unique nature of the Gallery, with its artistic and architectural heritage, galleries, gardens and collection, forms an educational and recreational resource that is recognised nationally and internationally. A model for the development of many regional galleries in Australia, Penrith Regional Gallery is committed to access, cultural democracy and the highest of standards in all aspects of its programs...

Had a great day out with a very special lovely girl. Great food and drink (reasonably priced + you can use NSW dine vouchers! 👍👍). Located very close to Emu Plains rail station and a very pleasant walk along the Nepean River.

Art was beautiful majority wise, although I didn't personally like the abstract exhibit, not my thing personally - I feel I should replace with my own paintings!! 😜

Lovely dining area and rugs provided to sit and eat on the grassed area near the vegie patch. Garden is well kept.

Toilets were very clean and the restaurant staff were exceptionally helpful and friendly. So shout out to the girls and guys there. You guys deserve a raise!! Thankyou to all staff at the gallery/restaurant for making for a perfect day.

Highly recommended and hope to visit...

Beautiful property, lovely staff, awful “art”

Art should be something that requires imagination and talent AS WELL AS technical skills. I understand this gallery mostly specialises in modern “art”, when hanging a sheet of crumpled paper passes for art. I don’t care about whatever conceptual message it’s supposed to carry or what it’s supposed to provoke (mostly a yawn), this kind of art would make the old masters turn in their graves. There were many local artists painting at the base of mountains and higher up in XVIII-XIXc. Why not...