CULTURE CLUB: John Olsen in conversation with Caroline Baum


Join Olsen Irwin artist John Olsen in a celebration and contemplation of his work Salute to Five Bells. Olsen will share his passion for Sydney and the harbour, and the inspiration behind the biggest commission of his career.CULTURECLUB15_TILES_SOH_5_700x394

Monday - December 14th -? 11am -? Sydney Opera House Concert Hall, Northern Voyeur

In 1971, Australian artist John Olsen was commissioned to create?a mural for the Sydney Opera House. Salute to Five Bells was completed in 1973, the mural was inspired by Kenneth Slessor?s poem Five Bells about a friend who drowned in Sydney Harbour. The result is a nocturnal image of fluorescent sea creatures welcoming sinking Joe into the suspended state between life and death. A great tragedy played out in Sydney harbour. Over 40 years later Olsen?s personal account of creating the mural has been published in My Salute to Five Bells and includes illustrations, quotations and thoughts, hand-written notes and his plans for the mural. Olsen Irwin is pleased to pass on discounted tickets to the event which can be purchased here. John Olsen is recognised nationally and internationally as one of Australia?s most significant and accomplished artists. Olsen's work is represented in the National Gallery of Australia, and all State collections. He has won the Wynne Prize in 1969 and 1985, the Sulman Prize in 1989, the Archibald in 2005 and was awarded an OBE in 1977 and an AO in 2001 for services to the arts.  

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