Macquarie Group Collection Art Committee profile: Clinton Bradley

Clinton Bradley standing beside Margaret Campbell’s Cheeky Bird, 2022, digital painting print on paper, 46 x 31 cm

 

Clinton Bradley is part of Macquarie’s Corporate Operations Group and was eager to join the Macquarie Group Collection (the Collection) Art Committee as soon as he started working at Macquarie 5 years ago, immediately emailing the Collection’s Director, Helen Burton, asking how he could join.

“I’ve been interested in art since I was very young and started collecting contemporary art in my early twenties. I had been a contractor at Macquarie and had always admired the Collection and its mission, specifically the focus on supporting emerging artists. It was something I really wanted to be a part of,” says Clinton. 

The Macquarie Group Collection history spans more than 30 years and encompasses 940 works, all under its theme of The Land and Its Psyche. 

Singular art collections of this strength and depth are very rare, and it’s a real privilege to be part of it. Looking at the Collection over time is so rewarding, it’s a history of the thoughts and concerns of different artists throughout this period, and the thoughts and concerns of Art Committee members who chose these works.”

Clinton Bradley
Macquarie Group Collection Art Committee

In his role as a Committee member, Clinton and the other Committee members are responsible for proposing acquisitions for the Collection, some of which go on to be acquired by Macquarie. Clinton describes what impact this can have on the on the life of a young artists.  

“The Committee recently purchased a beautiful ceramic work by Mary MacDougal. With the support of funds from this acquisition Mary was able further her study on a tour of the United Kingdom and Europe,” says Clinton.  

“The benefits to emerging artists of having their works purchased cannot be underestimated, even more so when such a well-renowned collection like Macquarie’s purchases their work. Being able to support emerging artist with the purchase and custodianship of their work is why I wanted to be involved with the Committee.” 

I love the unique ways that artists see the world and reflect that back to us through their work. Art allows us to see and think about things in new ways.”