In the annals of Australian art, one name often overlooked is Harold ‘the Kangaroo’ Thornton, a multifaceted figure whose life was as vivid as his psychedelic paintings. A self-proclaimed genius and relentless self-promoter, Thornton’s legacy is marred by a lack of recognition during his lifetime, despite his remarkable contributions to the artistic landscape. His story is a tapestry woven with eccentricity, creativity, and an unyielding spirit that demands to be told.
An Artist Unbound by Convention
When the Archibald Prize finalists were revealed in 1983, one painting stood out among the rest: “Dr Brown and Green Old Time Waltz.” This seven-foot canvas depicted Bob Brown, the former leader of the Australian Greens, in a riot of colours and hidden details, from faces cleverly concealed in the foliage to whimsical green figures at Brown’s feet. But the spectacle was not solely the artwork; it was also the presence of Harold Thornton himself, who adorned hand-painted clothing and sported painted false teeth, embodying the very essence of his vibrant creations.
Thornton was a fixture at the gallery, forging friendships with the staff while craving recognition for his unique talents. His nephew, Philip Thornton, recalls his uncle’s unwavering desire for acknowledgment: “He really did want the recognition.” Yet, despite his friendships with luminaries like Martin Sharp and Ken Done, Thornton remained an enigma, largely forgotten in the broader narrative of Australian art.
A Life of Unparalleled Creativity
Thornton’s artistic prowess unfolded in myriad forms—murals, comic strips, and poetry—all infused with a mischievous sense of humour. He spent years in Amsterdam, painting on the streets with a cup for donations and a sign reading, “If you like Harold’s art, Harold likes beer.” His work graced the walls of local establishments, including a mural at The Bulldog café, drawing in tourists and art lovers alike.
Despite his prolific output, Thornton’s brilliance went largely unrecognised, even as the surrealist movement gained traction in Australia. His friend Ken Done mused, “Maybe he was ahead of his time, maybe he was behind his time. Maybe he was just on Harold Thornton’s time.”
Thornton’s life was a kaleidoscope of experiences: he dabbled in professional wrestling, owned a restaurant in Papua New Guinea, and even created a portrait of his deceased father, painting in solitude while family members outside sought to intervene. He claimed to have once died on an operating table, only to return as a ghost—an embellishment that epitomised his flair for storytelling.
The Quest for Recognition
Though Thornton was a finalist in the Archibald Prize three times before his death in 2004, his attempts to cement a lasting legacy were fraught with challenges. Following the completion of his portrait of Bob Brown, the politician’s initial discomfort with its representation gave way to a deeper appreciation. “I see some Hieronymus Bosch in Harold’s painting,” Brown reflected. “It’s not a portrait. It tells a whole story.”
Thornton’s artistic journey was punctuated by his defiance against authority. Once commissioned to paint a local mayor, he accentuated the man’s prominent nose, which led to a physical altercation with disgruntled locals. He even staged a protest on the steps of the Art Gallery after a painting failed to secure a spot in the Archibald Prize, wheeling in a giant papier-mâché head in a shopping trolley.
A Lasting Impact
Though Thornton’s dream of housing his work in a dedicated gallery remains unfulfilled, his legacy lives on through those who remember him fondly. Chris Osborne, his great-nephew, is working to produce a film about the artist, aiming to capture the essence of Thornton’s infectious laughter. Ken Done continues to preserve Thornton’s artistic contributions, stating, “Not everybody will understand Harold or Harold’s work, but that’s OK. He was Harold, and he didn’t give a fuck.”
Despite the passage of time since his death, Thornton has not been forgotten. He once proclaimed, “I am told everybody dies, but not me,” a sentiment that rings true as his vibrant spirit and captivating narratives continue to resonate.
Why it Matters
Harold Thornton’s life serves as a powerful reminder of the complexities of artistic legacy. His relentless pursuit of creativity and self-expression, coupled with his struggles for recognition, highlight the often turbulent relationship between artists and the establishment. In a world where many creative voices go unheard, Thornton’s story prompts us to reflect on the importance of embracing diverse perspectives and ensuring that the art world remains an inclusive space for all. His journey, marked by both triumphs and tribulations, is a testimony to the enduring power of art and the human spirit.
