As excitement builds for the opening of the new $9 million Heysen Gallery in March 2026, the estate has launched its special “Etched in History” brick campaign, inviting the public to leave a personal mark on one of the nation’s most treasured cultural landmarks.
For a $250 donation, supporters can have their name—or the name of a loved one—engraved on a brick that will form part of the footpath leading to the new gallery. This permanent tribute offers a meaningful way to honour family, celebrate a passion for the arts, or simply connect with a place that has inspired Australians for generations.
The Cedars is an iconic cultural estate and home to one of Australia’s most important artistic legacies: Sir Hans and Nora Heysen. Visitors can explore the oldest surviving purpose-built artist’s studio in the country (1912), the family homestead, beautifully maintained Artist’s Garden, and acres of native bushland that influenced Hans Heysen’s celebrated landscape paintings.
Hans Heysen Foundation Chair, James Sexton, says the response to the campaign has been overwhelmingly positive.
“This is a unique opportunity for people to be physically connected to the story of The Cedars. The response has been amazing from the community, and we’ve already sold around 100 bricks, raising around $25,000 so far.
Whether you’re a long-time admirer of the Heysen’s or someone who values Australian heritage and culture, this is your chance to leave a lasting mark.
The upcoming Heysen Gallery is the first major development on the property in a century and will allow the Heysen collection to be displayed with modern gallery lighting and environmental conditions for the very first time. A pathway will link the new gallery to Hans’ original studio, creating a seamless connection between heritage and contemporary exhibition spaces. The gallery will also host an ongoing program of exhibitions highlighting Australian artists for years to come.
As a not-for-profit organisation, Heysen The Cedars relies on community support to preserve the heritage-listed estate, its gardens and the priceless legacy of the Heysen family.
The chance to be “etched in history” closes Sunday, 23 November. For more information, visit heysen.org.au
