On a gorgeous sunny day, a group from CBCA Northern Sydney Sub-branch discovered May Gibbs' wonderful home on the shores of Sydney Harbour. It was a revelation to learn about May Gibbs' prolific life as an artist and writer, especially working as a woman in that male-dominated era and field. She really was ahead of her time, working as a cartoonist, artist, illustrator and author and promoting her own work with cards, illustrated covers and even wine bottle labels! I particularly loved her watercolour paintings of family and friends - a truly gifted portrait artist. Of course her watercolour illustrations and stories inspired by the Australian bush, are her most famous work and beautifully rendered.
We took a guided tour of her house and learnt many fascinating details of her life including her love of Scotty dogs and lack of interest in cooking! I loved seeing May's easel and original cartoons and caricatures.
May Gibbs' home Nutcote in Neutral Bay.
May Gibbs' beautiful artwork.
View from back verandah of Nutcote.
May and her husband watched the Harbour Bridge being built, from the comfort of their own home!
