This portfolio takes a unique look at Norman Lindsay’s sculptures by concentrating on the hands of his sculptures. Whilst his sculptures, as a whole, are beautiful works of art, some of the smaller details are just as unique and beautiful and deserve to be shown in their own right. The images in this portfolio were taken in early 2020 in the sculpture gardens at the Norman Lindsay Gallery.
The Norman Lindsay Sculpture Garden is located at Faulconbridge, in the Blue Mountains west of Sydney. Here, there are many examples of his amazing collection of sculpture works that date back to 1913. Most of his sculptures were completed between 1920 and 1940 however he continued working on some right up until his death in 1969.
There are over a dozen sculptures in this amazing garden, all of which were created by Norman Lindsay during his time at the property and were made from concrete over a metal frame or armature. None of his works were given a formal name but working titles were simply a descriptive of his work.
He found that working on these sculptures was his way of relaxing. His second wife, Rose, was the model for his “Nymph” sculptures and many of others as well.
During the 1920’s he created the “Greek Sphinx” and the “Sirens”. A depiction of the mythical creatures that supposedly lured sailors to their deaths. These characters started to appear in some of his other works during this time as well. The first “Siren” was was created in 1927 and then another appeared later in 1928.
Another of his sculptures depicts a satyr pursuing a nymph. This is located in front of the current gallery. The first “Sphinx, which was created in 1927 was small enough to decorate the radiator of Rose’s car; a 1926 Vauxhall. He created a much larger version in 1943 which stands on the path leading to the “Pool”.
As well as the sculptures he created a number of urns and pots which also found a home in his gardens.
Lindsay was an Australian artist, etcher, sculptor, writer, art critic, novelist, cartoonist, and amateur boxer. One of the most prolific and popular Australian artists of his generation, Lindsay attracted both acclaim and controversy for his works, some of which were deemed blasphemous at the time.
More details can be found on the National Trust website.
