Tasmania and Beyond 1870–1931

The second half of the 19th century saw the advent of industrialisation and the movement towards Federation. There was a changed awareness of the Tasmanian landscape and artists were reacting to events and concerns that were to shape the new century.

Of significance was the work of William Charles Piguenit, Tasmania's 'first born artist'. His atmospheric paintings of place and dramatic depiction of skies and precipitous mountains drew a new public awareness of the beauty and mystery of the Tasmanian landscape.

Also featured are works by Hugh Ramsay and Tom Roberts who each had family connections in northern Tasmania; and colleagues George Lambert, Thea Proctor, Arthur Streeton and Sydney Long.

In the latter 19th and early 20th centuries Australian craftspeople and designers were part of international movements of decorative arts styles. The natural environment was a significant influence with motifs and designs inspired by Australian plants and animals being widely used. Examples can be found within the gallery.