Ancient Roots in the New World: Olives as Food for the Body and Soul

Dudley House, Bendigo | September 18-29, 2025

Exhibiting Artists

Showcasing a variety of works from both established and emerging artists

from the City of Greater Bendigo, and the UN-designated local Region of Gastronomy

Lauren Starr

Photo Media Artist

Andre Sardone

Sculptor

Yvonne George

Sculptor

Ben Wrigley

Photographer and Sculptor

Sharon Greenaway

Photographer and Mixed Media Artist

Ceilidh Meo

Exhibition Curator and Textile Artist

Bringing together the rich history, mythology and symbolism of the olive tree with the versatility of the fruits as ingredients.

From ancient times, the olive has been venerated for the food it gives, the oil it produces and the beauty it provides in the landscape. This exhibition showcases the beauty, symbolism and myths associated with the olive tree through exploring the olive trees, wood, fruit and oil as the subject or material for the works. Artists have been invited to produce new work which draws on their own appreciation of the olive tree, and its long association with human culture.

This is an interactive exhibition

You are invited to join us for a diverse calendar of supporting workshops and events presented by The Long Road Olive Co-op Ltd, a not-for-profit co-op supporting small scale olive growers to become more productive and profitable

Exhibition Opening

We welcome you to Dudley House for the official opening of the exhibition and silent auction on

Friday, September 19th from 6pm

Delight your Tastebuds

In collaboration with MacKenzie Quarters we invite you to an olive inspired gastronomy experience, with tickets priced at $150pp

Saturday, September 20th from 7pm

Explore the Gifts of the Goddess

Athena was the Greek Goddess of Olives, and the patron of artisans and makers. Get creative at one of our exhibition-adjacent workshops

Tickets start from $20pp

We'd love to see you there!

Mark your calendars, spread the word, and get ready to experience an exhibition like no other before presented at Dudley House. We can't wait to see you there!