Antipodeans

Antipodeans

The Antipodeans, a group of Australian artists in the 1950s and 1960s

The term "Antipodeans" refers to a group of Australian artists who emerged in the 1950s and 1960s. This collective, also known as the "Antipodean School," played a significant role in shaping the Australian art scene during that period. The movement was characterized by its rejection of abstract and non-representational art in favor of figurative and realist styles.

History

The Antipodeans emerged as a response to the dominance of abstract expressionism and non-representational art in Australia at the time. Influenced by European art movements such as the School of London and the Italian Renaissance, the group sought to revive traditional artistic techniques and subject matter.

The movement was officially established in 1959 when a group of artists, including Charles Blackman, Arthur Boyd, and John Brack, organized an exhibition titled "The Antipodeans" in Melbourne. The exhibition showcased works that emphasized the human figure, narrative storytelling, and a return to classical artistic principles.

Influence and Legacy

The Antipodeans had a profound impact on the Australian art scene, challenging the prevailing trends and pushing for a reevaluation of traditional artistic values. Their emphasis on figurative art and narrative storytelling resonated with many artists and art enthusiasts who felt disconnected from the abstract art movement.

The movement also sparked debates and discussions about the role of art in Australian society. The Antipodeans questioned the notion that Australian art should solely reflect the country's landscape and indigenous culture, advocating for a broader range of subject matter and artistic styles.

Notable Artists

Several notable artists were associated with the Antipodeans movement:

• Charles Blackman: Known for his dreamlike and poetic paintings, Blackman's work often featured children and fantastical landscapes.
• Arthur Boyd: Boyd's paintings explored themes of Australian history, mythology, and the human condition, often with a dark and introspective tone.
• John Brack: Brack's work focused on everyday life and urban scenes, capturing the essence of post-war Australian society with a satirical and critical eye.

Legacy and Criticism

While the Antipodeans were influential in their time, the movement also faced criticism. Some argued that the group's rejection of abstract art limited artistic experimentation and stifled creativity. Others believed that the movement was too focused on European artistic traditions and failed to adequately represent the diversity of Australian culture.

Nevertheless, the Antipodeans played a crucial role in challenging the status quo and broadening the artistic landscape in Australia. Their legacy can still be seen in the ongoing debates about the role of figurative art and the importance of narrative storytelling in contemporary Australian art.

See Also

• Australian art
• Figurative art
• Realism (art movement)