rationale

The MRAG program is based on its collection which focuses on works on paper. This medium underpins the 2010 program which has been engineered to look at developing a wider understanding for the community and developing an understanding with this 'artistic practice' which is based on the broad notion and acceptance of 'works on paper'.

location

MRAG is situated in the Hunter Region 30 minutes west of Newcastle. It sits just east of the tourist center of the Hunter Valley Vineyards. Maitland is neighbored by Newcastle Region Art Gallery and Lake Macquarie City Art Gallery both only 40 minutes driving from Maitland with which MRAG has a professional, constant and corporative working relationship.

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community partnerships

MRAG has a partnership with the Maitland Central Library in the Look Who's Talking program where writers speak, launch and discuss their books. As well children's events are held in workshops and lessons in the branch libraries.

There is also a partnership with the local Arts Council and concerts and talks are held at MRAG with this organisation. MRAG also has strong relationships with the local branch of the National Trust and a number of events are organised with the goal of reaching the public on heritage issues. MRAG as well has a relationship with the Maitland city centre management where events are regularly held to attract the public into arts related activities.

Finally MRAG has an education partnership including most importantly an Education Advisory Team (EAT)-The EAT was developed in 2009 as an outcome of MRAG's audience development research project started in August 2008. As an advisory team of school principals and early childhood directors work together with the art gallery's education coordinator to develop targets for each year and work towards solutions. In 2009/10, in the first vital 15 months of re-opening, the EAT will deliver free or low cost transport to local schools and secure funding to help MRAG present school programs at no charge.