Lot 261
With accompanying letter by the Artist critiquing his own work
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Notes:
- Norman Lindsay is one of Australia's greatest artists lauded for his proficiency in oils and watercolours, pen and ink drawings, engravings and sculpture. His Great War posters were commisioned by the Government of the day to promote conscription and as the author and illustrator of 'The Magic Pudding' he is also known as a writer of considerable talent. Lindsay's letter writing is also renowned with a number of books dedicated to his impressive output, but few letters are as prescient as the one accompanying this work. The letter written in October 1967, two years before his death, responds to the owner of a pen sketch who enquired of Lindsay whether he recalled making the drawing. Lindsay starts his reply with the words ' I was staggered at the survival of this pen and ink drawing "The Weird Lady"'. He goes on to say it was ' done when I was a school boy of fourteen' but his recall was slightly out, as the date would indicate he was actually 18 at the time. He comments that he was in the habit of giving his drawings to any passer-by who took a 'fancy' to them. Like all young boys expecting fame he was experimenting with his moniker and he writes that 'the elaborate signature amuses me.' You can imagine the old man reflecting on himself as a teenage boy determining how he will sign his creative work. The letter also outlines his plans to leave his house at Springwood to the National Trust ' when I make my final departure', an outcome that came to pass. Lindsay also adds a dispassionate critique of his early work finding fault with his use of textures and it is as if he is commentating on another's work as he looks back on the early Lindsay. This pen sketch and letter present a rare and valuable insight into the creative mind of Norman Lindsay.
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