Sybil Craig facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Sybil Mary Frances Craig
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| Born | 18 November 1901 London, United Kingdom
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| Died | 9 September 1989 (aged 87) Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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| Nationality | Australian |
| Education | National Gallery of Victoria Art School, Working Men's College |
| Known for | Painting |
Sybil Mary Frances Craig (1901–1989) was an important Australian painter. She is famous for being an official war artist. The Australian War Memorial chose her for this special role. Sybil Craig was the first woman to paint other women working in factories during wartime.
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Early Life and Moving to Australia
Sybil Craig was born in London, England, on November 18, 1901. She was the only child of Matthew and Winifred Craig. Her family was well-off.
In 1902, when Sybil was just a baby, her family moved to Australia. They first lived in Brighton, then moved to Caulfield in 1914. Sybil grew up in a home where many artists and musicians often visited. She called it a "suburban bohemian household."
Becoming an Artist
Sybil Craig loved art and studied painting for many years. From 1924 to 1931, she went to the National Gallery of Victoria Art School. There, she learned from famous teachers like Bernard Hall and William McInnes.
She also studied at the Working Men's College, Melbourne in 1935. This college is now known as RMIT University. In 1932, Sybil had her very first art show by herself. It was held at the Melbourne Athenaeum.
Sybil had her own art studio on Collins Street from 1936 to 1951. Because her family had money, she could focus on her painting career.
Painting During Wartime
In March 1945, Sybil Craig became an official war artist. This was a very special job. The Australian War Memorial Board asked her to record what women were doing to help with the war.
She painted women working at the Commonwealth Explosives Factory. This factory was in Maribyrnong, a suburb of Melbourne. Her paintings showed how important women's work was during the war.
Art Groups and Recognition
Sybil Craig was part of several art groups. These included the New Melbourne Art Club and the Melbourne Society of Women Painters and Sculptors. She was also a member of the Victorian Artists Society.
In 1978, a special art show of her work was held. It was at the Important Woman Artists Gallery in East Malvern. This show looked back at all her amazing paintings.
Sybil Craig received an important award in 1981. She was given the Medal of the Order of Australia. This award recognized her great contributions as an artist.
Sybil Craig passed away in Melbourne on September 15, 1989.
Images for kids
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Sybil Craig's self-portrait
