Historian Dr Edith Ziegler will speak about her latest book, The Worlds and Work of Clarice Beckett, a biographical study of this important early Modernist artist who excelled in portraiture, still-life and landscape. Her relatively short life spanned an era in which the very purpose of art was being questioned, different schools of Modernism were emerging, and artists such as herself had to navigate the turbulence of an art world characterised by ferocious feuds and did so in a way that was uniquely her own, not least because she had a strong sense of place and a commitment to her own vision of Australia.
Clarice Beckett was self-effacing; she left no diaries or letters and was only occasionally mentioned in the diaries of her friends. For an insight into her enigmatic genius, Edith Ziegler will discuss Beckett’s family background, childhood; art education; philosophical, spiritual and psychological enquiries and influences; friendships and contacts. Listeners will be drawn into the world in which Clarice’s vision was formed and her talent developed.
- Arrival and drinks - 5:30 to 6:00pm
- Talk - 6:00 to 7pm
- Exhibition viewing and conversation - 7 to 7:30pm
Clarice Beckett: Paintings from the National Collection is a National Gallery Touring Exhibition supported by The Australian Government through Visions of Australia.
7 December 2024 – 9 March 2025
