The Land of Lewers

Way out west and wondering where to take the kids on the weekend? Take them to the Land of Lewers!

Practically built on the edge of the Nepean River at Emu Plains, Penrith Regional Gallery was the home (yes, the actual home) of highly accomplished Modernist artists Margo and Gerald Lewers. So it's both heritage house and garden packaged as an active and thriving regional gallery, with plenty to entertain the kids.

Penrith Regional Gallery garden. 

Photography by Carole Best, 2013.

The rambling cottage garden complete with outdoor sculptures and old-world water tank is both whimsical and elegant. Children climb trees, play hide-and-seek and dash between fountain water spouts. All this—while we sit in the sun with our Ross Dobson inspired coffee and cake.

Penrith Regional Gallery garden. 

Photography by Carole Best, 2013.

The house itself is divided into two distinct parts; the old homestead facing the river is connected by a covered walkway to the modernist addition. It’s here where the Lewers extensive collection is hung and from time to time you’ll see works by the likes of Hinder, Haefliger, Flugelman, Cassab, Balson and more.

From Story, a wall painted by Hendrick Geriche.

Photography by Carole Best, 2013.

The heritage house built in 1906 is now home to the Lewers Learning Centre. The Centre (which sounds much drier than it is) is currently occupied by  Story with each of the homestead's four rooms equipped with dress up, tromp-l'œil wall painting and a ginormous basket of Lego pieces to inspire participation in storymaking and play. 

Detail from Story.

Photography by Carole Best, 2013.

The Land of Lewers is everything a modern gallery should be - fun, evocative, and a real entertainment option for children and adults alike. And one of the many delights to be found way out west!