Evening Shadows

I was struck by many works toady at the art gallery, and very nearly glossed over this particular piece because of its European character. However, having overheard the gallery tour guide giving her speil concerning it, it became clear that it was an extremely poignant and important commentary on Indigenous Australia. Although the piece was painted in 1880, its message is as clear and interesting today as ever. H J Johnstone, the European artist who was formerly a photographer, captures the dwindling nature of Indigenous Australia in 1880, a century after first contact. His photographic background is self evident in this detailed and beautifully lit scene. The overwhelming impression from this work (our tour guide explained) is one of a culture in decline, destined to be remembered only on canvas. His subtle hues of purple and pink, the calm reflections in the water, and the forlorn, weary faces of the characters within are visual cues that signal a sad acceptance of this decline.

fig. 1 Johnstone, H J. "Evening Shadows, Backwater of the Murray, South Australia ". oil on canvas, 120.6 x 184.1 cm, London or Paris: Art Gallery of South Australia, Adelaide, 1880.

Yet over a century after the painting's inception, indigenous culture is arguably gaining back its momentum and heritage with a vengeance. Contemporary Indigenous art and culture is flourishing once again, and if Johnstone was alive to paint it again today, in all likelihood the water would be flowing, the fire burning bright, and its title would read, 'Morning Shadows'.