v i s it a n ar t gall e r y
NSW Embellish: Hilda Rix Nicholas and The Art of Costume May 5th–june 18th This important retrospective exhibition from the Rix Wright collection includes paintings, sketches and other works on paper, as well as significant photographs, ephemera and costumes. Painter Hilda Rix Nicholas made a hugely compelling contribution to Australian art in the period between the first and second world wars, with her nationalist landscapes and spirited portraits of soldiers. In France, she also achieved a remarkable level of success and recognition for an Australian artist, particularly for her orientalist and pastoral subject paintings and her drawings. This is an exhibit not to be missed. Free entry, 10am to 4pm, Monday–saturday, Bega Valley Gallery, Zingel Place, Bega. (02) 6499 2222; gallery.begavalley.nsw.gov.au ACT Cartier: The Exhibition at the National Gallery of Australia, March 30th–july 22nd A dazzling exhibition of more than 300 masterpieces by the prestigious Paris jewellery house, this show provides a window into the world of Cartier’s famous clients, from royalty to movie stars. It includes Princess Margaret’s diamond-encrusted rose brooch (above) that she wore to Queen Elizabeth II’S coronation and Elizabeth Taylor’s Burmese ruby necklace, which is synonymous with the iconic jeweller. Open daily, 10am–5pm. nga.gov.au. Tickets from $20, available at the door or online at ticketek.com.au