Seventy acclaimed artist works donated to region’s collection

David Rankin

With the works that launched his career strapped to the roof of his Austin A40, David Rankin said he almost lost them all when the rope holding them down snapped and they scattered like a pack of cards across the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Despite having been run over, Sydney’s Watters Gallery (1964 – 2018) recognised his talent and gave David his first show in 1968.

One hundred solo exhibitions later, Wynne Prize winner Rankin is an acclaimed artist with works held by the National Gallery of Australia and major public galleries.

His work is sold at auction houses such as Sotheby’s, Deutscher-Menzies and Leonard Joel, with a signed oil on canvas work ‘Ridge-Mungo’ selling for $23,500 at Christies in 2023, and in 2024 a signed landscape on canvas titled, 'Heart',  raised over $100,000 for the Royal Flying Doctors Service of Queensland. 

Generous donations

Thanks to a generous gift from Dr Peter and Christine Bundesen AM, 70 of Rankin’s works have entered the Sunshine Coast Art Collection to be enjoyed now and by future generations.

David Rankin said there was a deep bond he shared with Peter and Christine Bundesen. 

"It is a joy to know that we will now share that bond with the Sunshine Coast community." Rankin said.

In an insightful interview with Council’s Sunshine Coast Art Collection Curator Nina Shadforth, David shared how he got his start in art, his influences and his practice.

Rankin’s Crossings – Pink, an acrylic and charcoal work on paper, is one of the works on show in the Latest & Greatest III exhibition at Caloundra Regional Gallery, from February 7 to April 6. Additional works from the Collection are also on display across the region in public spaces, Council libraries and Sunshine Coast City Hall.

Latest & Greatest III exhibition - 7 February to 6 April 2025

Sunshine Coast Strong Portfolio Councillor David Law said the exhibition showcased works acquired into the region’s impressive art collection over the past two years.  

“We are fortunate to have received many generous donations from artists, partners and philanthropists, including the gift of 79 works on paper by esteemed Australian artists David Rankin and the late Sidney Nolan,” Cr Law said.

“Our Sunshine Coast Art Collection is an important and valuable public collection that makes art more accessible to our local and visiting communities, helping to keep our region's cultural story alive.

“This is a unique opportunity to view an outstanding collection of works and I encourage everyone to take a moment to enjoy this impressive cultural legacy.”

About the Sunshine Coast Art Collection

Exhibition and Sunshine Coast Art Collection Curator Nina Shadforth said Council’s ambitious collecting and acquisitions activity included acquisitive art awards, commissioned works and generous donations.

“We’ve continued to strengthen the collection in the key areas of public art and 2D – 3D contemporary works, as well as new explorations into digital and time-based media and more,” Ms Shadforth said.

“The collection boasts landmark commissions, including the First Nations public artwork Dura Gunga, which forms a Kabi Kabi welcome at the entrance of the Sunshine Coast City Hall.

“We’ve also added groundbreaking acquisitions in the digital medium with No use crying over ripped lace, by 2024 Sunshine Coast National Art Prize winner, Todd Fuller and a digital soundscape by internationally renowned local composer Tyson Illingworth (tyDI).

“Looking ahead, our focus remains on ensuring art is accessible through thoughtfully designed and well-maintained public artworks, as outlined in the Sunshine Coast Creative Arts Plan.”

Caloundra Regional Gallery

The Gallery is located at 22 Omrah Avenue, Caloundra and entry is free. There is level access from the car park to the gallery. Accessible toilet facilities are also available. The gallery is open from 10am Tuesday to Sunday.

The gallery presents a dynamic exhibition program featuring leading national and local artists, complemented by immersive public programs, educational programs, tours and events.