In 1959, as part of the Granny Smith Festival, an exhibition of paintings was held at Tanner's Furniture Store. Because of the interest created, Mr. G.R.(Bunny) Cannon, with the support of local artists, and the approval of Ryde Council, conducted the first meeting of the Ryde Municipal Art Society at Tanner's Store that same year.
In 1980, joint occupancy of the Historical Willandra House was granted to the Art society along with the Ryde Historical Society, where both needs were met with a gallery and showcase local history.