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Modern Visions of the City of Perth
Exhibited in Perth Town Hall
22 April – 10 May 2009
The 'Modern Visions' exhibition displayed artworks, photographs, architectural plans and publications that helped to demonstrate aspects of the modernisation of Perth and charted the development of the City of Perth from the 1930s up until the 1960s.
John Oldham Overall Plan, 1966
Watercolour, pen and ink on paper
City of Perth Collection
By examining aspects of art, architecture and planning we can get a sense of how the city has positioned itself within the landscape and note its changing relationship with the river.
The exhibited artworks illustrated the growth and development of the city in the modern era. By focusing on the streetscape, city skyline and river, these works selectively showed transition and growth of the City and identified symbols of change.
The exhibition showcased a range of works from the City of Perth’s art collection, as well as selected artworks generously loaned from other public and private collections.
| Excerpt from the Lord Mayor’s Message given at the exhibition opening:
"Art is one special way we can also record our past. Through artists’ impressions history has been recorded for future generations to reflect upon. Paintings, photographs, illustrations and sketches assist in documenting aspects of our social, cultural and built form historically speaking by helping to construct a detailed and informative picture of the past. This exhibition invites you to take a ‘walk down memory lane’ to the buildings that existed in Perth’s past. Some have withstood the test of time while others have made way for progress. These artworks can be appreciated as a reminder of what once existed and what also still remains as landmarks that we can identify with; to help give a sense of belonging, history and our place in it." |
The Modern Visions of Perth exhibition was presented by the City of Perth as part of it’s ongoing commitment to preserving cultural heritage for the enjoyment of current and future generations.
The exhibition catalogue (see link on right) contains details of all artworks exhibited in the exhibition, an essay by art historian Dr Robyn Taylor and other information pertaining to Perth’s social and cultural life between 1930-1970.
For further information contact the City of Perth Curator, Belinda Cobby on 9461 3403 or email belinda.cobby@cityofperth.wa.gov.au