About the Collections

A significant part of the Arthur & Yvonne Boyd gift of Bundanon to the people of Australia in March 1993 was an extensive art collection. This donation was the culmination of considerable effort and several years work by Arthur to build up a collection representing the family. He achieved this by holding some works back from sale and buying others - in particular works by Merric, Emma Minnie and Arthur Merric Boyd. Sidney Nolan had added to the Collection with a number of early works, and a series made in the Bundanon studio in the early 1980s.

The Bundanon Art Collection comprises over 3,600 items with more than 1,200 works by Arthur Boyd, another 1,200 works representing five generations of the Boyd family dynasty and a number of works by Arthur Boyd's contemporaries, such as Sir Sidney Nolan, John Perceval, Joy Hester and Charles Blackman. Donations from past artists in residence also form a significant part of the Collection.

In addition to the Art Collection, Bundanon also accommodates a Rug and Furniture Collection some of which date back to the 17th century; two book libraries; an archive of the Boyd family's papers including diaries from the early 1840s; an image library of Arthur Boyd's works (beyond those held in the Collection); and photographs of family, friends and significant events in Arthur's career.

The 1866 Bundanon Homestead and other buildings on the properties are heritage listed. These too come under the care of the Trust and their upkeep is directed by a Heritage Management Strategy. The approach taken by Bundanon is to maintain the flavour and atmosphere of the home as it was when given by the Boyds.