'An irresistible call lured Australian artists abroad between 1890 and 1914, a transitional period immediately pre- and post-federation. Travelling enabled an extension of artistic frontiers, and Paris – the centre of art – and London – the heart of the Empire – promised wondrous opportunities. These expatriate artists formed communities based on their common bond to Australia, enacting their Australian-ness in private and public settings.
'Yet, they also interacted with the broader creative community, fashioning a network of social and professional relationships. They joined ateliers in Paris such as the Académie Julian, clubs like the Chelsea Arts Club in London and visited artist colonies including St Ives in England and Étaples in France. Australian artists persistently sought a sense of belonging, negotiating their identity through activities such as plays, balls, tableaux, parties, dressing-up and, of course, the creation of art. While individual biographies are integral to this study, it is through exploring the connections between them that it offers new insights.
'Through utilising extensive archival material, much of which has limited or no publication history, this book fills a gap in existing scholarship. It offers a vital exploration re-consideration of the fluidity of identity, place and belonging in the lives and work of Australian artists in this juncture in British-Australian history.' (Publication summary)
Table of contents
Chapter 1: An Edwardian Excursion?: Identity, Belonging and Community for Australian Artists Abroad
Chapter 2: Widening the Circle of Art: The Voyage to Europe and the Melbourne National Gallery Travelling Scholarship
Chapter 3: From Paris to London: Australians in Ateliers, Clubs and Societies
Chapter 4: The Lure of London: Portraits, Performances and the Australian Brethren of the Brush
Chapter 5: Performing the Role of the Artist: Bohemia, Self-portraits and Dressing-up
Chapter 6: Women outside bohemia: Suffrage, Travel and Imagined Worlds
Chapter 7: Flying Further Afield: Authenticity, the Bush and Artist Colonies in England and France
Epilogue: A Transformed World
