50.16.17.90 United States Virginia Ashburn
Paul Compton, Ex Libris, 2011, handmade book with ink, tea and gouache illustrations, collection of the artist

Enchanted dome: the Library and imagination

Dates: 19 Oct 2012 - 14 Jul 2013

Address: Enchanted dome: the Library and imagination, State Library of Victoria, 328 Swanston Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000

Web: slv.vic.gov.au/event/enchanted-dome-library-and-imagination

The State Library's domed La Trobe Reading Room is a Melbourne icon, a space that has inspired writers and artists since it opened on 14 November 1913.

This exhibition celebrates the dome's forthcoming 100th anniversary, featuring representations of the dome in art and literature from the 1950s to today. They include prints by Marco Luccio, paintings by Louise Forthun, cartoons by Oslo Davis and Barry Dickins, and photographs by John Gollings and Mark Strizic. Writers represented include Ray Lawler, Shane Maloney and Arnold Zable.

Historian Stuart Macintyre described the dome as a 'magical hidden place'. This idea resonates through this display, from Cernak's whimsical ink drawings to Rick Amor's brooding canvas of the dome at night.

This is a free event, open during Library hours.

Local directions

Blue Rotunda, Cowen Gallery

Facilities

  • Access Without Assistance for the Disabled

How to get here

Melbourne

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