Constance Stokes, Australian painter (d. 1991)

Constance Stokes, born Constance Parkin on February 22, 1906, and passing on July 14, 1991, carved out a significant, albeit sometimes overlooked, place in Australian art history as a distinguished modernist painter. Primarily working in Victoria, her career spanned decades, marked by both periods of intense creation and critical acclaim, particularly for her nuanced approach to modernism.

Early Life, Education, and Artistic Foundations

Stokes's journey into the art world began with rigorous training at the prestigious National Gallery of Victoria Art School. She honed her skills there until 1929, a period that laid the groundwork for her distinctive style. Her talent was quickly recognized, leading to a coveted scholarship that allowed her to further her studies abroad at London's esteemed Royal Academy of Arts. This exposure to European artistic currents undoubtedly enriched her perspective and contributed to the sophisticated modernist voice that would define her work.

Emergence and Critical Acclaim

While the 1930s saw Constance Stokes produce fewer works, her artistic output gained momentum, with her paintings and drawings consistently exhibited from the 1940s onwards. A testament to her growing reputation and unique vision, she was included in a major exhibition of twelve Australian artists that embarked on an international tour in the early 1950s, visiting Canada, the United Kingdom, and Italy. Notably, Stokes was one of only two women, and two Victorians, selected for this prestigious show, underscoring her pioneering spirit and the quality of her art on a global stage.

The Melbourne Contemporary Artists and Enduring Recognition

A pivotal influence in Stokes's development was the renowned artist George Bell. Under his guidance, she became an integral part of the Melbourne Contemporary Artists, a progressive group Bell established in 1940. This association positioned her at the heart of Victorian modernism, a movement that sought to challenge traditional artistic conventions. Unlike many of her contemporaries whose works sometimes faded from public memory, Stokes's art continued to be highly regarded for many years after the group's formation. She received glowing reviews from prominent international critics, including Sir Philip Hendy in the United Kingdom and Bernard William Smith in Australia, who praised her innovative techniques and profound artistic statements.

A Career Reimagined and Later Works

Life took an unexpected turn for Constance Stokes with the untimely death of her husband in 1962. This personal tragedy, however, became a catalyst, compelling her to fully dedicate herself to painting as a professional career. The result was a remarkable resurgence, highlighted by a successful one-woman show in 1964 – her first in three decades. This marked a renewed period of productivity and public engagement. Stokes continued to paint and exhibit actively throughout the 1970s and 1980s, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to her craft.

Her lasting impact was further cemented with a retrospective exhibition in 1985, which toured various Victorian regional galleries, including the Swan Hill Regional Art Gallery and Geelong Art Gallery. This extensive show provided a comprehensive look at her extensive oeuvre, bringing her work to new audiences and reaffirming her place in Australian art.

Legacy, Revival, and Institutional Presence

Despite her significant contributions, Constance Stokes remained relatively less celebrated than some other prominent Australian women artists of her era, such as Grace Cossington Smith and Clarice Beckett, after her passing in 1991. However, her artistic fortunes experienced a welcome revival as she emerged as a central figure in Anne Summers' influential 2009 book, The Lost Mother. This publication cast a new light on her life and work, reintroducing her to a broader contemporary audience and ensuring her rightful place in the narrative of Australian art.

Today, Stokes's enduring legacy is evident in the prestigious collections that house her works. Her art is represented in most major Australian galleries, including the National Gallery of Australia and the National Gallery of Victoria. Interestingly, the Art Gallery of New South Wales stands as the sole significant Australian collecting institution that does not yet hold one of her pieces, a point often noted by scholars and art enthusiasts alike.

Frequently Asked Questions About Constance Stokes

Who was Constance Stokes?

Constance Stokes (née Parkin, 1906–1991) was a prominent modernist Australian painter from Victoria, known for her innovative style and significant contributions to Australian art throughout the mid to late 20th century. She was a member of the Melbourne Contemporary Artists.

When did Constance Stokes receive her artistic training?

She trained at the National Gallery of Victoria Art School until 1929 and subsequently received a scholarship to study at London's Royal Academy of Arts.

What made her art notable?

Stokes was acclaimed for her modernist approach, influenced by George Bell. Her work stood out for its enduring quality and positive critical reception, including praise from international critics like Sir Philip Hendy, unlike many of her Victorian modernist colleagues.

Where can one see her paintings today?

Her artworks are held in most major Australian galleries, including the National Gallery of Australia and the National Gallery of Victoria. The Art Gallery of New South Wales is a notable exception.

How was her legacy revived?

After her death, interest in her work was significantly renewed when she was featured as a central figure in Anne Summers' 2009 book, The Lost Mother, bringing her art to a wider contemporary audience.