Sir Sidney Nolan is celebrated as one of Australia’s most influential modernist painters. Born in Melbourne in 1917, he transcended his working-class roots, his father was a tram driver to reshape Australia’s visual storytelling through deeply symbolic and mythic narratives.

Nolan gained widespread renown with his iconic Ned Kelly series, boldly portraying the outlaw through stark forms and brooding landscapes, works that fused historical legend with modern expression.

In 1965, Nolan traveled to New Guinea, allowing its vibrant landscapes and cultural richness to inspire a striking body of work, notably the painting New Guinea (oil on canvas), which merges ceremonial figures and tropical environs into an evocative, abstract composition.

His career was marked by relentless innovation, spanning painting, mural, illustration, and set design. He received major accolades, including knighthood, the Order of Australia, and membership in the Royal Academy. His works now feature prominently in national and international collections, solidifying his legacy as a master of Australian art.