Print this page Rediscovering Sidney Nolan: The Early Works

This course coincides with a major retrospective exhibition at the Art Gallery of NSW devoted to one of Australia's most important artists, Sidney Nolan. Best known for his celebrated Ned Kelly series, Nolan drew inspiration from Australian history, landscape, myth and memory to create some of the country's most recognisable imagery. Through an exploration of his early works, participants will examine the themes, influences and creative vision that shaped Nolan's artistic development and enduring legacy. Suitable for anyone interested in Australian art, history and cultural identity.

DELIVERY MODE

Face to face

COURSE RESOURCES

• Brian Adams, 'Such is Life'
• Colin MacInnes, 'Nolan'
• Elwyn Lynn, 'Sidney Nolan - Australia'

COURSE OUTLINE

• Nolan's early training in Melbourne
• The influence of the group formed at Heidi and John and Sunday Reid
• The formation of the Angry Penguin Group, first in Adelaide, then Melbourne
• War time in Melbourne
• Travels across Australia
• The interventions of Sir Kenneth Clarke

LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

• Identify key elements of Nolan's approach to his subject, identify and understand the influence of other artists on his early works, encouraged to seek out these early influences in the large body of works from the 1960s onwards