Beloved by locals and drawing visitors from far and wide, the Shepparton Art Museum (SAM) has continued to enthral, intrigue and inspire over the past 12 months, connecting artists with audiences and providing a vital cultural bridge that enriches lives immeasurably.
Presenting a rich and diverse exhibition program, from showcasing local, national and international talent to the standout Brett Whiteley: Inside the Studio, SAM has not only expanded its curatorial reach but also deepened its community impact. A dynamic engagement calendar, filled with compelling artist talks, SAM Club art sessions and special presentations has further ignited curiosity and creativity, capturing the imagination of both budding artists and seasoned enthusiasts alike.
Surveys from the Whiteley exhibition reveal it is captivating a diverse audience while making a strong economic impact on the local community. Nearly half of attendees were first-time visitors to the museum and 78 per cent travelled more than 25 km to attend, many coming from Greater Melbourne and even interstate.
In addition to attending the exhibition, visitors also supported the broader Shepparton community:
74 per cent dined at a local restaurant or café, 12 per cent stayed overnight and 33 per cent shopped at local retail stores. This economic ripple effect highlights SAM’s vital role as both a cultural and commercial driver for the region.
Such an impressive influx of new and returning visitors has been matched by the exceptional service delivered by SAM’s Front of House Team. Consistently earning glowing reviews, the team plays a crucial role in creating memorable experiences that keep people coming back, not just to the museum, but to Shepparton itself.
As one visitor shared in a review:
“The gallery staff were exceptional. I spoke with about five staff members—each of whom was incredibly warm, welcoming and engaged with the art and the museum. Such an amazing positive experience.”
Acknowledging the team’s dedication, SAM’s Artistic Director Danny Lacy said:
“We’re proud to have such a passionate team who care deeply about giving every visitor a memorable experience at SAM. So much of the feedback we receive is about the warmth and friendliness of our Front of House Team, who go to lengths to learn about all the artworks and artists on display, which is no easy feat with five levels of constantly changing exhibitions. We’re especially grateful to our volunteers, who generously give their time to support the museum by greeting visitors and helping out with events.”
