Attendance figures at the city’s main gallery have grown by more than 60 per cent in the past two years, according to newly-released council figures, with education figures also rising.

The council’s acting recreation and culture manager John Finnerty said the gallery exceeded its target attendee numbers by more than 4000 people.

“One of the highlights in recent times has been an exhibition by Patricia Piccinini, which drew very strong crowds during the time it was on,” Mr Finnerty said.

“There’s also a steady flow of school groups that have come to the art gallery and experienced what it has to offer.”

Warrnambool mayor Michael Neoh said the city gallery had achieved strong results in both patronage and with its educational programs.

“(Gallery director) John Cunningham and the team have really worked hard to ensure the gallery is one of the best in regional Victoria,” Cr Neoh said.

“Our arts community has really grown in strength in recent times — there’s a real vibrancy in our city.”

The gallery has completed plans for its summer activity program, working with the National Gallery of Victoria to present The Sacred and the Profane — Challenges and Possibilities in Renaissance Art.