Sad to leave all the new frinds from Maitland, but also itching to get back to 'my' gallery to put some things into practice from Maitland. My day in Newcastle was spent seeing 2 galleries - the end of year diploma students work at the TAFE gallery, and visiting Newcastle Gallery which was in install mode downstairs. I did notice that the install team was mostly young men dressed in black who wore black gloves! Now there's an attitude. A bit disappointd after Maitland, maybe due to the only half gallery open and all the roadworks outside, and it seemed dark on entering. They had an exhibition from their collection on which was interesting. No cafe though, although I believe in their refurbishments happening soon there will be a cafe and a theatre. That might be a better time to come back. Of course Fancis Bacon: five decades on at the AGNSW was worth seeing, and the similoarities to Brett Whitley were obvious which I guess coming from the same era and being friends could account for that. There is always so much to see at the AGNSW, and the Dobell Drawing Prize was a bonus. Standing around the winning entry and listening to tother comments is always indightful...mmmm. Can't remember the winning title at present but there was some inspiring pieces and some ho hum work of course depending on your tastes. I still go for skill and original approach. Loved the David Fairbourne and noted a couple of techniques that could be useful. A trip to the EH Ivine Gallery was a first for me, and after lunch and finding I had left my mobile phone in the taxi (which was returned to me at the same spot within half an hour - phew how lucky!!) I had the opportunity to see the Blake prize. again the diversity of entries and subject matter is noted. Nice spot, good views. Today hopefully MCA and White Rabbit.... weather has cooled down and windy. Staying with and seeing old frinds is a joy and a pleasure. But photos will have to wait untilI get home as I have discovered it is the blog program I use that stops me uploading images through iPAD.