First Fleet Artist - George Raper

George Raper was a midshipman on the Sirius of the First Fleet whose talent and opportunity combined to produce what is now one of the National Library of Australia’s most treasured collections, the Ducie Collection of First Fleet Art. The collection includes 34 botanical paintings of which around 20 appear to be the first European depiction of the species. Raper’s ability to observe and depict the captivating beauty of Australian plants and birds from the Port Jackson area was heightened by his youthful enthusiasm for the novelty of what he witnessed. In this illustrated talk, Linda Groom, Curator of Pictures at the National Library of Australia, will describe Raper’s life and role in the First Fleet and discuss how comparison of his depiction of flowers with that of other artists helped authenticate the collection, which is unsigned. Copies of her book First Fleet Artist will be on sale at a special Friends’ price.

When: Wednesday 18 November, 10.30 am-12 noon
Where:  Maiden Theatre, Royal Botanic Gardens
Cost: $18, Friends and Friends of the National Library $12, includes morning tea at 10.30 am
Enquiries: 9231 8182 or download our Booking Form