No 001 Barton

Alison Alder (Creator)

    Research output: Non-textual formPhysical Non-textual work

    Abstract

    In this project, Canberra-based artist Alison Alder reinterprets and reinvigorates portraits of the first eight prime ministers. Developed from her fellowship with the Australian Prime Ministers Centre, Alder found rich inspiration in the early period in the nation's democracy. Until the introduction of Movietone newsreels in 1929, the imprint of ink on paper in newspapers, journals, magazines, posters and ephemera was the primary source of visual information available to the Australian people of their prime ministers. The printed image had the power to influence opinions and provide a sense of familiarity with, or conversely distance from the leaders of the nation. Inspired by a picture of Stanley Bruce's cabinet where they were all wearing some type of lapel badge, Alder presents each prime minister wearing at least one badge referencing a key aspect of their time in office. Neither explicitly positive nor negative, she leaves us to form our own opinion. Visually arresting, humorous and thoughtful, Alder's portraits bring these historical figures a little bit closer to us.
    Original languageEnglish
    Place of PublicationMuseum of Australian Democracy Old Parliament House, Canberra, Australia
    PublisherMuseum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House
    EditionSA.AA.03
    Size90 x 60cm each, Screen print on tissue
    Publication statusPublished - 2016
    EventOne to eight - Museum of Australian Democracy Old Parliament House, Canberra, Australia
    Duration: 1 Jan 2016 → …

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