THE Robert Martiensen: The Secret exhibition opening on Friday, August 11 at the Hamilton Gallery unveiled an extensive selection of Martiensen’s major works, never before shown to the public.

Dr Elizabeth Arthur, curator and author of ‘Robert Martiensen: The Secret’ announced the exhibition and Dr Alison Inglis (University of Melbourne) presented the book which is for sale through the Hamilton Gallery Shop.

HG Symposium - The Art & The Artist is a free event today from 10am where Dr Elizabeth Arthur will unravel the enigma of Robert Martiensen and the journey of this exhibition coming to light, Professor Jenny Zimmer will touch on outsider art and Associate Professor Anthony White will speak about outsider art in the Australian context.

Inspired by Hamilton local, Dr Elizabeth Arthur’s incredible book on this fascinating artist, the exhibition presents original works by enigmatic artist, Robert Martiensen.

In 2007 the recluse, was found deceased in his derelict farmhouse in rural South Australia, revealing an astonishing secret - the property was filled with thousands of his paintings.

The rescued collection and the enigmatic creator of the works inspired a study by Dr Elizabeth Arthur, as an art consultant, and the resultant splendid book accompanies the exhibition.

The artist emerges as an eccentric intellectual of obsessive passions.

The Hamilton Gallery Talk: Outsider Art & Disability will also be hosted on Saturday, October 7.