Air-raid shelter modelled by J. Suchomlin, Manly 1940, only sand, water and colour used
Artist
John Suchomlin
(Australian - Russian, 1886 - 1974)
Date1940
Object number00036848
NamePostcard
MediumPhotographic print on paper
DimensionsOverall: 88 x 138 mm
ClassificationsPosters and postcards
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionThis black and white photographic postcard of a sand sculpture titled 'Air-raid shelter' made on Manly Beach in 1940. The sculpture shows a woman and her three children huddled in the shelter, dog and doll in tow. The sculpture was made by John Suchomlin using only sand, water and colour.SignificanceThrough the unusual artistic medium of sand sculpture, John Suchomlin offers a unique insight into various political and cultural aspects of life in Australian during the first half of the 20th century. This postcard illustrates the fears many ordinary Australians felt during World War II, in particular the threat of air-raids.
