Beyond Service: Veterans’ New Journeys Exhibition

Discover the work of 2025 Veteran Artist in Residence, Hugh Semple, in Beyond Service: Veterans’ New Journeys.

The exhibition shares the powerful and personal stories of Australian military veterans as they step into new chapters of life after service. Through a series of paintings and drawings, each piece captures not only a veteran’s chosen pursuit – whether it be art, music, storytelling, or culture – but also the deeper sense of purpose these activities bring.

Accompanied by written reflections based on interviews, the exhibition invites viewers to see beyond the uniform and into the humanity of those who served.

“Purpose in life is just as important as drinking water. Finding something that engages you meaningfully will encourage a life of happiness and fulfilment.”

— Hugh Semple

The Veteran Artist in Residence program offers contemporary veterans the opportunity to engage with the Memorial and the broader community through an artwork or project. The art showcased in this exhibition was created during his residency. Learn more about the program here. 

The 2025 Veteran Artist in Residence program is supported by the Veterans Benevolent Fund, with support from RSL & Services Clubs.

The exhibition is on display in the Memorial’s Auditorium on Lower Ground level. Please note that access to the exhibition is dependent on the Auditorium’s availability, so we encourage you to call the Memorial in advance on (02) 8262 2900.

The Memorial is open every day, 9am to 5pm. Entry is free.

Artist drop-in sessions

Meet Hugh Semple and discover the stories behind the artworks featured in the exhibition during exclusive artist drop-in sessions.

Join Hugh in the Auditorium on the following dates:

• Friday 5 December, 11:30am – 12:30pm

• Saturday 6 December, 2:00 – 3:00pm

• Wednesday 14 January to Friday 16 January, 11:30am – 12:30pm

• Saturday 17 January, 2:00 – 3:00pm

You can drop-in at any time during the session. Bookings are not required. 

Entry is free.