Select works from the Julian Burnside AO KC & Kate Durham Collection
Gibson's is delighted to present the selected works of photography and prints from the Julian Burnside AO KC & Kate Durham Collection. This collection is a fitting testament to the couple's unwavering dedication to the plight of refugees worldwide and their support for artists who use their practice to advocate for social and political change. The auction features a significant oeuvre of photographs by fellow activist Wolfgang Sievers (1913-2007), a passionate advocate for human rights who is more broadly known for his powerful images of Australian industry and architecture.
Julian Burnside & Kate Durham together at a function.
Before studying law, Julian Burnside aspired to pursue a career in art, specifically photography, and a lasting affection for the medium is astutely demonstrated in this collection. Burnside has recently retired after 47 years dedicated to commercial law. From the early 1990s, Burnside carried out pro bono work advocating for the fundamental human rights of refugees and asylum seekers. Rising to the acclaimed mantle of King's Council, his work has profoundly impacted the lives of many refugees and is recognised by multiple awards, notably receiving Order of Australia in 2009.
His wife, Melbourne-born artist Kate Durham, has consistently challenged the status quo in fashion, art, and politics. Her journey campaigning for social and political reform was initiated at the age of 16 when she was expelled for 'political actions' in reaction to the Vietnam War and has continued to raise awareness on human rights issues via her art practice amongst other initiatives. Her project, Spare Rooms for Refugees, established in 2001, provided free community accommodation for asylum seekers. In 2002, Kate made a daring visit to Nauru with a BBC journalist and succeeded in exposing the distressing and inhumane conditions experienced by detainees.
Lot 16, WOLFGANG SIEVERS (1913-2007), Poster Designed by Gerard Herbst For Sievers - Newton Exhibition 1952, $200-400
Julian Burnside and Wolfgang Sievers crossed paths in the early 2000s, a meeting that would profoundly impact each other's lives. A friend contacted Julian regarding a suite of 93 photographs titled Born to See, which was being considered for acquisition by various institutions at the time. Familiar enough with the photographer's work, Burnside decided on impulse to purchase the collection sight unseen - a bold move for any art collector. It turned out to be a pivotal moment and awoke a real passion and appreciation for Sievers' expansive repertoire. In turn, Sievers began to follow Burnside's career avidly and reached out to him with a proposition. At that time, Sievers had conscientiously decided to lay down his camera and commit to advocating for human rights. He entreated Burnside and Durham to assist in leveraging his remaining private collection to fund this cause, and through their tireless efforts, the trio raised over $400,000 for refugees and humanitarian efforts.
Lot 26, WOLFGANG SIEVERS (1913-2007) Rayon Loom Tuner, Bruck Mills, Wangaratta, Victoria 1950, $200-400
Julian and Kate's shared passion for human rights has accumulated in an incredible personal collection of artworks, enriched by their mutual desire to make an impact through advocacy and fundraising and an appreciation for the richness and culture gained through art. They have never underestimated the power of art to engage with the world.
Now it is time to part with these much-treasured images. These photographs and prints will continue to inspire and inform, perpetuating the legacy of the artists whose keen observation aids us to better frame our understanding of the world. The Julian Burnside & Kate Durham Collection makes up Lot 1 - 178 in the forthcoming Prints & Multiples auction.