Director-general of major surface ships, Commodore Michael Houghton opened a new exhibition Reality in Flames at the museum yesterday evening.

The exhibition is a showcase of the war memorials extensive collection and received positive reviews after showing in Sydney.

A total of 90 works will be on display including paintings and sculptures from renowned artists Sidney Nolan and Albert Tucker. 

Art curator of the Australian War Memorial Warwick Heywood said the exhibition had a wide range of appeal and gave museum goers a chance to develop their understanding of the war.

“Many of the works take a strong look at the moods and feelings of the war,” he said.

During the opening, Mr Heywood gave a floor talk about many of the works.

He said World War II was a time of new experiences for many Australians and this was reflected in many of the works.

“New landscapes, meeting people from overseas and being in the military were new experiences for many people at the time,” he said.

“Another theme is the sense of spirit and overwhelming excitement that was often felt at the time.”

Each work has information displayed to assist the audience to better understand the exhibition.

Museum curator Philippa Charley-Briggs said it was great to have the exhibition opened on the night before Anzac Day. 

“Many of the artists were involved in the war and the works are a record of their experience,” she said. 

“Attending the exhibition can be a very person experience.” 

The exhibition is open today from 12.30pm after the Central Park Anzac service and is free to the public. 

It will remain on display until July 13.