“Jordan Wolfson is a very important artist working today and it’s important that we elevate the work of Australian artists – as we are doing with Lindy Lee’s $14.5 million commission already under way – and combine that with work by leading artists from around the world.
“Over the past 50 years,history has proven that all our investments have delivered cultural impact for Australia.”
NGA’s founding director James Mollison caused a public storm when then prime minister Gough Whitlam authorised the purchase of Blue poles,showcasing Pollock’s “drip” technique.
Acquired for $1.3 million,the painting has come to be regarded as one of the most important works of the 20th century and was last yearvalued at $508 million,making it the single most valuable artwork in the gallery’s collection.