Arthur Boyd, one of Australia’s most famous artists, would have been celebrating his 90th birthday on Saturday 24 July 2010.
Arthur, who died in 1999, left a legacy that is recognised in Australia and internationally. He is survived by his wife, Yvonne, and his three children and several grandchildren, all of whom are involved in the arts.
His incredible generosity will be remembered by his “gift to the nation”: Bundanon, a property of 1100 hectares of pristine bush land overlooking the Shoalhaven River in NSW.
Boyd believed "you can't own a landscape" and it was his wish that others could share the place that inspired him so much. The properties known collectively as Bundanon, now managed by the Bundanon Trust, provide access to Bundanon Homestead, his Studio and the Shoalhaven River, and encourage an appreciation and understanding of the importance of the landscape in the lives of Australians.
Arthur’s 90th birthday marks a special point in the Trust’s history. He was a visionary and very forward looking in all things to do with the environment, and the importance of creativity in the development of healthy individuals and a healthy society. Boyd’s vision is now, more than ever, coming to fruition.
Bundanon operates a residential education program for children and adults and presents a dynamic, on-site, public program, including concerts and special events, open days and group visits, allowing thousands of people to experience Bundanon every year.
We believe Arthur would have been honoured with a Google Doodle on his birthday, and we hope all Australians will take pride having his artwork on their computer screens.
