Today the National Gallery of Australia has announced Tina Arena as the official Ambassador for the opulent “Versailles: Treasures from the Palace exhibition”, opening here in December.

Arena is one of Australia’s true superstar exports, having sold four million records in France, lived there for years and received a French knighthood from Nicolas Sarkozy.

The exhibition brings more than 130 paintings, sculptures, furniture and precious objects from the Palace of Versailles to Australia. This is the first time a dedicated exhibition drawn from the collection of Versailles, detailing the reigns of Louis XIV, XV and XVI, has been seen outside France.

“It’s fantastic to think that all Australians will have the chance to experience the history, music, gardens and art of Versailles in Canberra,” she enthuses, “Our two countries have a special bond—something I am very proud to represent.

“Having spent the past fifteen years in Europe, and much of that in Paris, I have experienced some of the world’s greatest art and architecture,” said Ms Arena. “To have that depth of art history transposed into the National Gallery of Australia is incredible. I encourage all Australians to see this once-in-a-lifetime event.”

NGA Director, Gerard Vaughan says: “Tina Arena brings to the Versailles project exceptional experience and enthusiasm for anything French and Australian. Her international accomplishments in artistry and culture make her the perfect ambassador and we are delighted she is going to be here in Canberra for the opening celebrations.”

“Versailles: Treasures from the Palace”, NGA, December 9 to April 17. Bookings to Ticketek.com