Daylesford - Convent Gallery - Central

Daylesford - Convent Gallery

Nestled on the crest of Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens, over-looking Daylesford, the Convent boasts expansive views of the countryside and township below. A feast for the senses, the gallery is more than a three level haven of fine art in an historic 19th century mansion.

Described as 'the most beautiful gallery in Australia', the Convent Gallery presents local, national and international artists working in a variety of media and styles.

Daylesford - Convent Gallery

Galleries
The exhibition program is committed to promoting the work of emerging and renowned, local, national and international artists. New exhibitions are installed every 6-8 weeks. We are proud to support numerous sponsorships including artists in residence programs, along with supporting community fundraisers and hosting student exhibitions. The Convent is dedicated to supporting music such as acapella groups, local community choirs and individual musicians by offering spaces for their performances and fundraisers.

Chapel
The beautiful Convent chapel was built in 1904 and has remained relatively untouched, the ceiling and Baltic pine floors, the stained-glass door and windows are remnants of the old Convent. The original stained-glass windows feature dedications to local pastoralists Margaret, Mary and John Evans.

The Altar Bar
Stylish and contemporary, the Altar Bar serves a wide selection light refreshments, cakes, cocktails and wines. Whether you're after an intimate rendezvous or a vibrant get together, the Altar Bar provides a seductive backdrop for any occasion.

Cafe
Situated under a high, glass-encased atrium, surrounded by pleasant aromas and the anticipation of stunning galleries; you will find our perfectly positioned cafe. Serving breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea, the cafe gives visitors a break from their wanderings with an exceptional meal or Devonshire tea.

Gardens & Surrounds
No visit to The Convent is complete without a stroll through the six acres of picturesque and fragrant gardens and Sculpture Park, considered as "equal to the gardens of Versailles in France".

The year-round gardens include grand hedges, magnolias, a variety of hydrangeas, birch forest, roses and an impressive tulip tree. Visitors are particularly fond of the sculpture by Kevin Gilders, carved with a chainsaw; this gentleman has made many friends over the years standing at the entry to The Convent.

All care is taken to preserve as much water and resources as possible when maintaining these magnificent gardens. Water tanks, timers, mulches and pea-straw have all been cleverly utilised to ensure water is used effectively.

Explore the gardens as you leave the gallery via the brick path. See our front desk staff for more specific directions.

Weddings
As a wedding venue, The Convent is truly unique. It offers an exquisite private chapel, six acres of fragrant gardens, two beautiful, architecturally designed glass-fronted reception rooms and the Altar Bar for the 'after party'. The entire wedding experience can be held all under the one roof! The St Lawrence Atrium, featuring a glassed conservatory, seats up to 60 guests and a popular choice for pre-dinner drinks and the St Michael's Room seats up to 140 guests.

Retail Heaven
Winner of an Australian tourism award for Tourism Retailing, six Victorian tourism awards and inducted in the Hall of Fame, the shopping experience at The Convent is truly heavenly. The decadent retail areas are laden with unique pieces of jewellery, exclusive gifts, individually crafted items, produce and much more.

Stay
There is accommodation available at the Penthouse (Sleeps 2. Experience our luxurious loft-style penthouse apartment featuring a boudoir style bed, spa, living area, private balconies and impressive 360-degree views of our gardens, Daylesford and beyond), Love & Madness Art House (Sleeps 4. Perfectly located in central Daylesford, just across from The Convent, 'Love & Madness' is a two bedroom, two bathroom art house. Step into a world of colour, vibrant art and beautiful textiles. Designed and styled by Tina Banitska) and Monastiraki Art House (Sleeps 8. The Convent owner Tina Banitska's latest artwork is Monastiraki Art House. This beautiful country home built in the style of 1920s Federation makes a powerful design statement. A lived-in look; this is a very individual and personal style of Tina's. The property is a canvas for Tina's collection of expressionist art and incorporates a bold design treatment of the function of each space, each room reflecting special times and events).

Self-guided Tour of The Convent

Begin your tour by heading down the original staircase to the Museum located in the basement.
From the museum, follow the staircase three flights up to the bell tower and nun's infirmary - go as far as the stairs go.
From the infirmary, head down one flight of stairs. Explore the gallery spaces and before entering the chapel, you'll find one of the original nun's bedrooms (also referred to as a nun's cell).
Enter the chapel. Feel free to light a congregational taper candle. Take time to sit and reflect while listening to beautiful sounds. Admire the two stunning leadlight windows by Alan Sumner (1911-1994) above the candle font. These windows were a later addition to the chapel, a dedication to the Evans family.
From the chapel, continue to the rear of the chapel where you'll find some of the oldest leadlight windows in the building.
Don't take the stairs just yet. Continue through to the St. Lawrence Atrium at the rear of the chapel. Feel free to open the balcony doors and savour the magnificent view over Daylesford and beyond.
Proceed into the foyer. Take time to admire the staircase created by local artisans - made from old roadside grates, cattle grids and pieces of antique glass.
Continue up the stairs, past the elephant and along the green carpet to the St. Michael's Room, once the St. Michael's day school.
Leave the St. Michael's room via the same door you entered and proceed down the big green staircase to the Altar Bar.
While in the Altar Bar take note of the elements once housed in the Chapel. The tabernacle, altar railings and marble have all been included in this space.
Leave the Altar Bar via the Gift Shop and you'll find yourself back at the Front Desk and Cafe.

Opening Hours:

Opening Hours

Cost:

Admission Fee

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