Australian Biography Series - Tom Bass (Study Guide)

SYNOPSIS

Tom Bass is one of Australia's leading sculptors, having created many of the country's most significant public works. His commissions include pieces for the National Library, Canberra's Civic Square and numerous churches and universities. However, none of his sculptures are in art gallery collections. His philosophy is that the sculptor is the seer or spokesperson for the community, whose role is to create 'public totems', not 'mantlepiece ornaments'. 'I saw the whole of Australia as a blank sheet that had to be written on,' says Tom. Born into poverty in Lithgow, NSW in 1916, it was his childhood experiences in Gundagai that inspired Tom to become an artist. After working as a swaggie and at other odd jobs, and surviving on a diet of rolled oats in every conceivable form, he studied at Datillo Rubbo Art School and later at the National Art School. In the 1970s, he established his own sculpture school and he is still a passionate teacher at the age of 88. Tom's own life and work have had a deep spiritual dimension, which he shares in this interview. Married twice, and the father of six children, he reflects on God, religion, war, beauty, family, marriage and his vision of public art and sculpture.

CURRICULUM LINKS

This program will have interest and relevance for teachers and students at middle to senior secondary and tertiary levels. Curriculum links include Visual Arts, Art