Join the Australiana Society’s end of year (Christmas) event for a special curator-led tour of two exceptional QVMAG exhibitions
Curator, Ashley Bird will take us through leading late 19th to 20th century industrial potteries, Campbell Bros and McHugh at QVMAG’s Inveresk site before we regroup at QVMAG Royal Park to explore the Jimmy Possum Chairmaking Tradition c1872 – 2022. This exhibition surveys Australia’s foremost vernacular furniture making tradition, including works by the elusive Jimmy Possum.
Bound to the people, place and history of the Meander Valley in northern Tasmania; this chairmaking tradition is unlike any other in the world. Its defining interlocking configuration; legs that intersect the seat and housed in the arms, back rungs that intersect the arms and housed in the seat, was reputably developed at several bush camps by the fringe-dweller Jimmy Possum. There are no primary sources documenting this mysterious artisan. Circumstantial evidence suggests he could have been an ex-convict, equally he may have been a refugee from the Irish famine, or a First Nations man from the mainland.
The subsequent historical chairmakers (c1883 – 1950s), some known, some unknown, worked in or near the townships of Deloraine and Westbury, and each developed a distinctive interpretation of the original design. Their chairs were made for family and friends and reflect the dimensions of who they were intended for, as the makers enjoyed the ultimate creative freedom of making for loved ones rather than for profit.
Date: Saturday 3rd December 1 pm - 4 pm
RSVP by Friday 25th November, 2022
Venue: Meet at Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery, Inveresk site, Launceston
Cost: Members $60.00, including drinks and refreshments, payable to the Australiana Society prior to the event. BSB 067 000, Account no. 1093 9529 Register your payment with QV + your surname + initials (e.g. QV Smith S). If paying by cheque – please post to Gemma Webberley, Treasurer, Australiana Society – Tasmanian Branch, Poplarville, 68 Risdon Road New Town 7008
Please confirm your booking by email with Annabel Tyson: tyson.annabel@gmail.com or Mob: 0429311874
Enquiries and dietary requirements: Annabel Tyson, Tasmanian Branch Events Coordinator