Five Mermen (five of six murals)

Artist David Henry Souter (1862 - 1935)

Date1919-1934

Object number00055528

NameMural

MediumOil paints on wood panel.

DimensionsOverall: 610 x 2,681 x 55 mm,

ClassificationsArt

Credit LineAustralian National Maritime Museum Collection funded by Australian National Maritime Museum Foundation

Terms

DescriptionFive of six murals of various themes painted by David Henry Souter between 1920 and 1934 that hung on the walls of the Bondi Surf Life Saving Club. This panel depicts five mermen swimming in the ocean as ocean birds fly overhead. Here is an illusion to surf lifesavers, representing a physically strong, courageous man with an affinity with the water. The lifesaver is positioned as an heir to the traditions of the Anzac and the Australian bushman.HistoryHenry Souter, along with artists such as Sydney Long and Norman and Lionel Lindsay was part of a movement known as the Australian Classical revivalists that blended classical figures and pagan spirits with Australian landscapes. Their work was closely linked with the nationalism of the pre-Federation and post WW1 periods. The Bondi murals are bold and evocative. All five panels combined, reflect themes including heroism, defence, militarism, self-sacrifice, the surf-life saving movement and beach culture in Australia. The final panel is of particular interest for its depiction of swimwear and the beach culture that had emerged in Australia by the 1930s. SignificanceWith his military and surf lifesaving background, Henry Souter was ideally placed to draw on these Australian themes of heroism to create these monumental panels. The works depict themes which have helped to shape our national identity – the diggers at Gallipoli, bush pioneers, the bronzed surfer, and a fit and healthy population enjoying their leisure at the beach.