New Acquisitions 2008 presents works by contemporary Australian artists purchased by the MCA over the past 12 months. A highly anticipated event in the MCA calendar, the annual exhibition reveals the artists recently selected by MCA curators to become part of the Museum’s permanent collection.

Collecting is a vital part of the MCA’s activities, as the only museum in Australia dedicated exclusively to collecting and exhibiting the work of contemporary artists. By purchasing new works by contemporary artists, the MCA is able to support living artists whilst promoting the importance of Australian art for future generations.

New Acquisitions 2008 provides an insight into current influences and practices of Australian artists and encompasses diverse media, from painting and photography to prints and three-dimensional works. It features a major new neon installation by Brook Andrew, a triple-screen environment by Andrew Sunley Smith, a porcelain bust by Ah Xian, a group of 200 shell worked slippers by Esme Timbery, and a series of new prints by Emily Floyd. A recent acquisition by former Primavera artist Koji Ryui is also included.