Lot 32: Viola Edith "Brownie" Downing (Australian, 1924-1995) A set of 61 original illustrations and smaller unframed

A set of 61 original illustrations
many signed and inscribed with titles
pen and ink and watercolour
35.5 x 28cm (14 x 11in).and smaller
unframed
together with two overpainted reproduction prints by the same hand (63)

"For generations of children and adults in Australia and overseas, Brownie Downing brought out the magic of childhood, the Australian bush and its native inhabitants in an art career spanning several decades. Through her sketches, watercolours, porcelain items and, later, illustrated children's books, she earned a distinct place in Australia's art world...Her success lay in an ability to capture the simple, naive beauty and innocence of children and wildlife in a way that transcended any one culture."


BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Ean Higgins, 'Obituary: Viola Edith "Brownie" Downing', The Australian, 18th July 1995