B. 1900 – 1973

Alison Bailey Rehfisch was an Australian artist celebrated for her post-impressionist florals, landscapes, and still lifes. Born Alison Green in Woollahra, New South Wales, her artistic journey began at age five when she lost her younger sister reflecting that "Life seemed so cruel without her, [so] I started to draw, pictures of God and heaven and angels and things … and the world to which I imagined she'd gone". 

Supported by her mother, a painter, musician and women's rights advocate, Rehfisch studied under Julian Ashton before marrying Rodney Rehfisch at 19. Motherhood temporarily delayed her artistic career, but after separating from her husband, she resumed her studies under Antonio Dattilo-Rubbo, finding creative camaraderie with artists like George Duncan, whom she later married.

Rehfisch's first exhibition took place in 1929, and she became a regular exhibitor with the Society of Artists from 1931. Known for her rhythmic compositions and bold use of color, her work often embraced simplicity and design. Despite being criticized for her modernist approach, particularly in the post-WWII era, Rehfisch’s dedication to her art remained unwavering.

Her career faced personal and professional challenges, including the loss of hundreds of paintings in a 1947 fire and the death of her husband in 1974. Struggling with failing eyesight and depression, Rehfisch took her own life in 1975. Today, her work is recognized as a key contribution to Australian modernism, with pieces featured in landmark exhibitions such as Australian Women Artists: 100 Years 1840–1940 and The National Women’s Art Exhibition in 1995.

To read a more in-depth biography of the artist, click here.