WINTER SEASON AT SHEPPARTON ART MUSEUM MODERN ART, HANDS-ON CREATIVITY AND A PERFECT GOULBURN VALLEY GETAWAY

Facing Modernity: Degas to Picasso draws in thousands of visitors in the first month

This winter, Shepparton Art Museum (SAM) is inviting families, art lovers and curious minds to experience a world-class exhibition alongside a vibrant program of creative activities in the heart of Victoria's Goulburn Valley.

Since opening in late May, Facing Modernity: Degas to Picasso from Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki has welcomed more than 3,000 visitors, cementing its status as one of regional Victoria's must-see cultural experiences this winter.

The landmark exhibition, on display until 20 September, features 37 extraordinary paintings and sculptures by some of the most celebrated artists of the modern era, including Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, Salvador Dalí, Paul Cezanne and Georges Braque. As the exhibition's only Australian venue, SAM offers a rare opportunity to encounter these internationally significant works without leaving the country.

Throughout the winter, visitors can delve deeper into the exhibition through a series of experiences designed to spark creativity and imagination for art lovers of all ages. Inspired by the bold colours, innovative techniques and groundbreaking ideas of the artists featured in Facing Modernity, SAM's school holiday program SAM Winter Camp will include hands-on art-making workshops, guided family activities, drop-in creative sessions and opportunities for young visitors to explore the exhibition in engaging and accessible ways. Beyond children’s programming, two life drawing workshops inspired by the human forms of Facing Modernity will guide participants through dynamic sketching exercises, while Bar SAM Soirée will unfold across three evenings in June, July and August, bringing live jazz performances to SAM’s Level 4 Terrace Bar for an intimate evening experience.

SAM Artistic Director Danny Lacy said the winter season provides the perfect opportunity for art lovers to discover both the exhibition and the region.

"Facing Modernity has already captured the imagination of thousands of visitors, and the cooler season offer the perfect time to experience these remarkable works together," said Danny.

"Whether you're introducing children to Picasso for the first time, exploring the exhibition with friends and family, or making a weekend of it in the Goulburn Valley, there is something for everyone to enjoy."

Beyond the gallery walls, visitors can extend their stay and discover the best of the Goulburn Valley. Renowned for its rich agricultural heritage, vibrant food scene and picturesque landscapes, the region offers plenty of opportunities for families seeking a winter escape.

From orchard-lined drives and riverside walks to farm gate experiences, playgrounds and cafés, the Goulburn Valley provides the perfect complement to a day at SAM. Located just two hours from Melbourne, Shepparton is an easy and rewarding destination for a cultural day trip or weekend getaway.

Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali encouraged locals and visitors to enjoy the activities taking place these holidays.

“There are plenty of family activities running alongside the exhibition these winter holidays. From local business activations to SAM’s school holiday program, there’s so much on offer across Shepparton and Goulburn Valley,” he said.

“We encourage locals and visitors to go out and make the most of the over 60 unique and tailored experiences in the Eat, Play, Stay & Shop guide, as well as the Home for the Holidays activities.”

Locals staying home for the school holidays are encouraged to invite friends and relatives to visit and explore the home grown activities available in Shepparton and Goulburn Valley and enjoy special events and happenings at local venues over winter. Tickets for Facing Modernity are discounted for curious art lovers living locally.

The exhibition forms part of a major partnership with Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki and showcases works drawn from the internationally significant Robertson Collection. Spanning Impressionism, Post-Impressionism, Fauvism, Cubism and Surrealism, Facing Modernity: Degas to Picasso traces the artistic revolution that transformed the way we see and understand the world.

Facing Modernity: Degas to Picasso from Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki is on at the Shepparton Art Museum until 20 September. For tickets, program details and further information visit sheppartonartmuseum.com.au. For further information on exploring the region visit sheppandgv.com.au.

Image credit: Facing Modernity: Degas to Picasso from Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, installation view, Shepparton Art Museum, 2026. Photo: Leon Schoots