John Olsen (b.1928) Newcastle, Australia

He is one of Australia’s most significant artists and his works are represented in the National Gallery of Australia, and most state and regional galleries, and are also held in numerous private and corporate collections, both nationally and internationally.

His impressive and noted works are marked by an intense engagement with the Australian landscape. Plants, birds and animals also feature in his works. He captures a spiritual quality with his unique use of line and form.

The You Beaut Country series firmed his reputation in the early 1960s. He is also famous for his interpretation of Sydney harbour in his commission for the Sydney Opera House, the mural, “The Salute to Five Bells” in the 1970s.

John has won the Archibald Prize in 2005, the Wynne Prize in 1969, and he was awarded the Order of Australia.