Two Great Exhibitions At Museum Of Riverina This Summer

The Museum of the Riverina has two new exhibitions this summer: The Lex Factor: From Wagga to the World Stage and The 2024 Bald Archy Prize.

Both exhibitions are on display at the Museum's Historic Council Chambers site on the corner of Baylis and Morrow Streets.

Council's Manager Museum Luke Grealy said the Museum was thrilled to host both the return of The Bald Archy Prize in its 28^th year at the end of its 2024 tour and an exhibition celebrating the life and work of Wagga Wagga icon Lex Marinos OAM.

"Our latest exhibitions will be officially launched on Friday 20 December at the Museum's Historic Council Chambers site, and we encourage the community to come and help us celebrate," Mr Grealy said.

"Lex Marinos was one of our city's greatest exports and a much-loved figure nationally. Over the past 20 years the Museum has collected items relating to different aspects of Lex's life.

"Before he died, Lex Marinos and the Museum were collaborating to create an exhibition exploring the 75 years since Lex made his debut in Wagga Wagga, on 1 February 1949, a place he was always proud to call home.

"Lex was a multi-faceted Renaissance man. An actor in theatre, film and TV, a director, author, sports aficionado, and radio personality, he long-championed diversity and equality within his chosen profession.

"The exhibition is not only a fitting tribute to this iconic Greek-Australian, but also a fond farewell to a beloved performer who will be greatly missed."

Mr Grealy said The Bald Archy Prize showcases the best of satirical portraiture from across Australia.

"The exhibit pokes fun at Australia's biggest figures, from sportsmen to politicians, and encapsulates the irreverent, larrikin Australian spirit in a way that appeals to people from all walks of life.

"This is the final stop for the 2024 Bald Archy tour, so come and see it before it's gone!"