Nestled in the picturesque 1,000-hectare expanse of Bundanon on the New South Wales south coast, an art museum has unveiled a captivating exhibition that shines a light on the artistic legacies of the Boyd women, whose contributions have long been overshadowed. At the heart of this celebration is the remarkable photographic work of Lady Mary Nolan (née Boyd), the sister of renowned Australian artist Arthur Boyd.
Mary Nolan’s artistic journey was a multifaceted one. She was not only a painter and potter, but also an accomplished photographer whose work has only recently been unearthed at the National Library of Australia. The Hidden Line: Art of the Boyd Women, the current exhibition at the Bundanon gallery, showcases 48 of Mary’s evocative and nostalgic photographs, offering a unique glimpse into the lives of a family deeply devoted to art, travel, and the great outdoors.
Once the home of Arthur Boyd and his wife Yvonne, Bundanon has now become a sanctuary for the artistic legacy of the Boyd dynasty. The exhibition celebrates the often-overlooked contributions of the Boyd women, including Mary Nolan, whose photographs capture the essence of a family immersed in creativity and a deep connection to the natural world.
Mary’s photographic journey began in her early years, when she was married to the artist John Perceval and raised four children. It was during this time that she honed her skills behind the lens, documenting the family’s adventures and the vibrant artistic community that surrounded them. After the dissolution of her first marriage, Mary moved to London, where she later married the renowned artist Sidney Nolan in 1978.
The photographs on display at the Bundanon gallery offer a captivating glimpse into the private lives of the Boyd family. From intimate moments of family gatherings to the breathtaking landscapes that inspired their artistic endeavours, Mary’s lens captures the essence of a clan that was deeply rooted in the arts. Her work is described as “extraordinary,” with a sense of evocation and nostalgia that has long been overlooked.
The Hidden Line: Art of the Boyd Women is a testament to the enduring artistic legacy of the Boyd family and the remarkable talent of Mary Nolan. Through her photographs, visitors can immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of a family’s creative journey, rediscovering the hidden gems that have long been overshadowed. The exhibition runs until 15 February, providing a unique opportunity to celebrate the artistic contributions of the Boyd women and the enduring power of Mary Nolan’s photographic legacy.
