Max Watters OAM

As you enter the heart of Muswellbrook, you may notice a solitary figure sitting outside the Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre. This is the bronze statue of the late Max Watters, a renowned local artist and philanthropist. A self-taught painter, Max found his inspiration in the rural landscapes of the Upper Hunter Region and dedicated most of his career to capturing its essence. Known not only for his artistic talent but also for his generous spirit, Max was deeply committed to fostering art and culture in the community. In addition to developing his work, Max became a passionate collector of contemporary Australian art. By 2004, he had amassed a significant collection, which he generously donated to the Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre. His vision was to ensure that both residents and visitors could enjoy and learn from the collection for generations to come, fostering art education, inspiring creativity, and promoting cultural tourism in the region. To honor his legacy, Muswellbrook Shire Council engaged Australian sculptor Linda Klarfeld to create this remarkable statue. Known for her expertise in bronze and granite, Linda’s work celebrates the human form, ranging from intricate miniature portrait busts to towering sculptures over three meters high. Unveiled in 2021, the Max Watters statue serves as a lasting tribute to an iconic figure whose generosity and vision continue to enrich the community.