Vali Myers: Australian artist
Vali Myers (1930-2003) was known as a free-thinking artist and dancer who lived a unique bohemian life that was true to herself. Her archive held by the Library spans her life overseas and her return to Australia.
Rare Books & Arts
A close look at the Michael Abbott Collection
Exhibitions, Rare Books & Arts:
The internationally significant Michael Abbott Collection of South-East Asian manuscripts is now on display as part of the World of the book 2022 exhibition.
It’s alive! The first illustrated representation of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein.
Collection spotlights, New books, Our stories, Rare Books & Arts:
State Library Victoria recently acquired an 1832 printing of the third edition of Mary Shelley’s, Frankenstein for its Rare Book Collection.
Journey through the collection: Ashton’s 19th century sketchbook
Collection spotlights, Victorian history, Visual arts:
A little sketchbook with a lot of stories. How did the newsworthy events of the 1880s go from pocket sketches to newspaper illustrations?
Dante 700: an Australian story
Collection, Rare Books & Arts:
To mark the 700th anniversary of the death of italian poet Dante Alighieri, we’re taking a look at the illustrative interpretations of his work by Australian artists.
A modernist pastiche: Matisse’s etchings for Joyce
New books, Rare Books & Arts, Visual arts:
Read about an audacious collaboration between Henri Matisse and James Joyce for the Limited Editions Club.
Journey through the collection: swinging ‘60s Melbourne through the lens of Henry Talbot
Collection spotlights, Photography, Visual arts:
Muse over the iconic, mid-century photographs of Henry Talbot. Featuring the fashion and advertising world of 1950s and 60s Melbourne.
Journey through the collection: Rick Amor
Collection spotlights, Painting:
These works by Rick Amor depict a quiet Port Phillip Bay, where constructions stand among nature, bearing the stains of passing time.
Bat-Man unmasks fears of moral corruption
Comic books, Our stories, Rare Books & Arts:
In the early hours of Monday the 26th of May 1952, a conspicuous-looking sedan is found patrolling Melbourne’s Bourke Street. To the front and rear of the car, two long aerials are poised ready to intercept any incoming police chatter. The radiator holds a makeshift flag… Read More ›
Vale Margaret Bourke (1945–2021)
Announcements, News, Rare Books & Arts:
Des Cowley, Principal Librarian, History of the Book and Arts, shares the story of the unique and treasured Margaret and Tim Bourke Bridge collection.
