Art Goes to the Dogs: ‘Best in Show’ Opens in Murrurundi!
The Upper Hunter is about to get a whole lot furrier! This week marks the highly anticipated opening of ‘Best in Show’ at Michael Reid Murrurundi. Now in its seventh year, this beloved annual exhibition is a collaboration with Country Style magazine, celebrating the unique and enduring bond between Australians and their canine companions.
Whether they are hard-working farm hands or pampered couch potatoes, dogs hold a special place in our hearts—and this year, more than 20 leading contemporary artists are bringing that bond to life through painting, sculpture, and photography.
Exhibition Highlights
The 2026 edition is the most ambitious yet, featuring a "lively parade of pooches" captured with everything from wit and humour to tenderness and whimsy.
Lucy Vader: Known for her thick, expressive layers of paint, Vader’s works often blur the line between rural reality and vibrant abstraction. Look for her energetic depictions of dogs in the landscape, such as the high-spirited Pasture Dreams.
Jo White: An Armidale-based favourite, White’s work is packed with nostalgia and wit. Her featured pieces like The One With The Van and Working Like Dogs perfectly capture the quiet, quirky moments of Australian life with a dog by your side.
Other Artists to Watch: The show features a stellar line-up including Trevor Smith, Petrina Hicks, Baden Croft, and Chelsea Gustafsson, among many others.
Don’t Miss: Dog Day Afternoon
While the exhibition opens on Thursday, 27 February, the highlight for local dog lovers is the public celebration on Saturday, 14 March.
When: Saturday, 14 March 2026, from 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
The Vibe: Visitors are encouraged to bring their own four-legged friends to explore the gallery grounds and enjoy a program of "pet-centric activities".
Plan Your Visit: Best in Show 2026
- Is there an entry fee? Entry to both the gallery and the Dog Day event is free and open to the public.
- Can I get coffee or food on-site? Yes! The on-site Big Brown Dog Kiosk is famously pet-friendly. You might even be greeted by the resident chocolate Labrador, Stoker, while you grab your latte.
- Where is the best place to park? On-site parking is available via the Boyd Street entrance. If the gallery grounds are full, additional parking is available on the verge further down Boyd Street.
- Can I buy the art online? All works from ‘Best in Show’ can be previewed and acquired by request before the official opening. For inquiries, contact amandamackinlay@michaelreid.com.au.
Pro Tip: Don't forget to grab the 2026 Art Issue of Country Style (on sale Monday, 2 March) to see full profiles of the exhibiting artists!
