Australian Galleries. The Purves Family Business: The First Four Decades 1956-1999
Caroline Field
Australian Galleries
‘Let’s start a gallery’, Anne proposed.
‘I woke with an idea formed in my mind that we could turn the front of the factory into an exhibiting and dealing commercial gallery. I discussed it with Tam…’
Founded by Anne and Tam Purves in 1956, Australian Galleries pioneered the exhibition and commerce of modern art in Australia, providing a platform to promote the reputation of a clutch of post-war Australian artists emerging in Melbourne. In the decades that followed, through unwavering commitment despite industry and personal hiccups, they played a pivotal role in developing an active and sustainable art market and nurturing the careers of several hundred Australian artists; including Arthur Boyd and John Brack whose portraits of the couple bookend this publication.
In ‘Australian Galleries. The Purves Family Business: The First Four Decades 1956-1999’, curator and historian Catherine Field presents a captivating narrative detailing the history of the gallery – told in chronological order, from its formative years to Anne’s death in 1999. Drawing on archival photographs and material including Anne’s handwritten memoir, and personal accounts and revealing anecdotes from the artists, critics, collectors and other personalities connected to the gallery, including their son Stuart; it provides insight into the family, activities, events and close relationships with artists, clients and patrons that shaped the growth of the gallery. A postscript briefly covers some of the major issues and events which occurred beyond the documented 43 years while tributes to Anne attest to the enormous impact she had on those she engaged with, and on Australian art.