William Beckwith McInnes: An Artist’s Life
Tuesday 18 Apr 2023, 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Vicki McInnes is the granddaughter of WB McInnes, the subject of the biography written by Margot Tasca and published in 2022, titled William Beckwith McInnes: An Artist’s Life.
The announcement that William Beckwith McInnes, the young artist from Victoria, had won the 1924 Archibald Prize, brought gasps of astonishment. This was the fourth consecutive Archibald claimed by McInnes—in fact, he was the only artist to have ever won the prize.
(Tasca, M 2022, William Beckwith McInnes: An Artist’s Life, p. 7)
This is an exceptional book that re-establishes the position of WB McInnes in the art world, presenting a comprehensive biography that encompasses his many achievements.
This talk will provide a unique insight into what it takes to put together a significant biography from the perspective of members of the artist's family who more than anyone have a deep understanding of his life and achievements.
Afternoon tea will be available along with copies of the book for guests to look through. Copies of the book will be for sale during this event.
Copies of the book can be purchased here.
Banner Image: 'Port Jackson', by WB McInnes. Image Courtesy of Latrobe Regional Gallery
Seven-time Archibald winner, WB McInnes had an illustrious career. Studying drawing with Frederick McCubbin from the age of 14 and later painting under Bernard Hall, he eventually took over as teacher and director of the Melbourne Gallery School of Art. In 1927 he was commissioned by the Federal government to depict the opening of the first parliament in Canberra, and in 1933 travelled to London to paint the portrait of the Duke of York, the future King George VI.
As one of the country’s most sought-after painters, he is known for his portraits of war heroes, prime ministers, lord mayors and other notables.
Acknowledgment of traditional owners.
We would like to pay our respects to the traditional owners of the land on which our building stands, their leaders, past, present and emerging.