Barbara Hanrahan Focus

LAUNCH Saturday 1 September 5.30pm

Prints, letters and memorabilia from the life of the fascinating artist and author Barbara Hanrahan.
Brag collection debut and specially selected works from the Hanrahan estate available for purchase.

Barbara Hanrahan 1939 – 1991

Born in Adelaide, Barbara the artist is remembered for her sometimes confronting but beautiful creations. She produced over 400 art works [screen prints, paintings, linocuts and wood blocks] during her lifetime and won numerous awards. Her works are held in most major Australian art galleries.

In 1963 she studied printmaking at the Central School of Arts and Crafts in London, and it was in London that she wrote her first novel ‘The Scent of Eucalyptus’, published in 1973. It won worldwide acclaim. Her vivid description of an Adelaide childhood evokes memories for us all. She went on to write 15 novels and was creating up until her death in 1991.

In the 1970s, after the publication of her first book ‘The Scent of Eucalyptus’ Barry made contact with Barbara again. A friendship was renewed and he and wife Maureen had many happy meetings with Barbara and partner Jo after their return to Adelaide. During this time Barbara gave several of her works to the Wrights and these, together with earlier works given to Barry, and some purchased, form the Burra Collection.

In 2017 Barry and Maureen Wright donated prints and memorabilia by Barbara Hanrahan to Burra Regional Art Gallery. Barry dated Barbara in the 1960’s and has written his memories of their relationship.

As well as 10 art works, the Collection includes copies of her 15 published books, personal items given to Barry, her letters from London, newspaper articles and hand prints of Barbara and Jo.

After the exhibition opening on 1st September 2018 these items will remain on permanent display in the Burra Regional Art Gallery.