Step Inside an Australian Masterpiece: Discover The Cedars and the New Heysen Gallery in Hahndorf

The Heysen Gallery

For travellers seeking a memorable blend of history, art, heritage and breathtaking gardens, few destinations in South Australia rival The Cedars at Hahndorf. Long regarded as one of Australia's most treasured historic homes, this remarkable estate has become even more compelling with the opening of the brand-new Heysen Gallery, offering visitors an extraordinary journey through the lives and works of two of Australia's greatest artists.

Located just minutes from the charming main street of Hahndorf in the Adelaide Hills, The Cedars invites visitors to experience the landscapes that inspired generations of Australian art.

A New Chapter Opens with the Heysen Gallery

From 4 July, visitors can experience an exciting new attraction as the Heysen Gallery officially opens its doors with the inaugural exhibition, Heysen: A Shared Legacy.

The exhibition celebrates the artistic achievements of Sir Hans Heysen and his daughter, Nora Heysen, presenting an exceptional collection of works that reveal two distinct artistic voices connected by a shared love of South Australia.

Visitors can admire Sir Hans Heysen's magnificent paintings of towering eucalyptus forests, glowing light and rugged Australian landscapes before discovering Nora Heysen's beautifully observed portraits, still-life paintings and intimate glimpses into everyday Australian life.

Together, their works tell the story of a remarkable family whose influence helped shape Australian art for generations.

Walk Through Living Australian History

The Cedars is far more than an art gallery. It is the original family home where Sir Hans Heysen, his wife Sallie and their eight children built a life surrounded by nature.

Purchased in 1912, the property originally covered 36 acres before expanding to an impressive 132 acres. Today, many of the magnificent trees planted by Hans himself continue to flourish, creating one of the most beautiful historic gardens in South Australia.

Every corner of the estate reflects the artist's deep respect for the Australian landscape and his passion for conservation long before environmental protection became widely recognised.

Walking through the gardens offers visitors a rare opportunity to stand in the very locations that inspired many of Australia's most celebrated landscape paintings.

Explore the Home That Welcomed Royalty and World Celebrities

The Cedars

The beautifully preserved family home offers a fascinating glimpse into the private world of one of Australia's most celebrated artists.

Expert-guided tours take visitors through elegantly furnished rooms where original artworks remain displayed alongside family treasures and personal belongings.

Throughout the decades, The Cedars welcomed an extraordinary list of distinguished guests, including members of royalty and internationally renowned figures from the worlds of ballet, opera and film.

One of the home's most intriguing stories involves legendary ballerina Anna Pavlova, who became captivated by a very unexpected painting during her visit. Discovering the artwork that caught her attention has become one of the many delightful surprises awaiting guests.

Step Inside Sir Hans Heysen's Original Studio

The Cedars

Perhaps the most moving experience at The Cedars is entering Sir Hans Heysen's original artist's studio.

Unlike many historic studios that have been recreated, this remarkable space remains virtually untouched. Easels, brushes, palettes, sketches, paints and unfinished works remain exactly where the artist left them, creating the remarkable impression that he has simply stepped outside for a few moments.

For art lovers, it offers an incredibly rare opportunity to witness the working environment of one of Australia's finest landscape painters exactly as it existed during his lifetime.

The studio provides fascinating insight into Heysen's creative process and the techniques that enabled him to capture the distinctive light, texture and grandeur of the Australian bush.

A Perfect Day Trip in the Adelaide Hills

The Cedars

Combining world-class art, beautifully maintained gardens, rich Australian history and the picturesque surroundings of Hahndorf, The Cedars offers one of South Australia's most rewarding day-trip experiences.

Visitors can spend hours wandering beneath towering gum trees, exploring historic buildings, discovering artistic treasures and gaining a deeper appreciation of Australia's cultural heritage before enjoying the cafés, boutiques and local produce that have made Hahndorf one of the state's most popular destinations.

Whether you are passionate about Australian art, fascinated by history or simply looking for a peaceful escape surrounded by natural beauty, The Cedars delivers an unforgettable experience that appeals to every generation.

The opening of the new Heysen Gallery makes this the perfect time to rediscover one of South Australia's greatest cultural treasures.

The Cedars – Historic Home and Heysen Gallery

68 Heysen Road, Hahndorf, Adelaide Hills, South Australia 5245
Telephone: (08) 8388 7277
Email: contactus@heysen.org.au
Website: www.heysen.org.au

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