B. 1879 – 1966 

Thea Proctor was an Australian artist and designer, renowned for being a tastemaker and strong advocate for modern art. Born in New South Wales in 1967, Proctor attended art school in Sydney in 1896 before moving to London and continuing her artistic education at the St John’s Wood School of Art in 1903. 

In London, her connections with fellow Australian artists, including Charles Condor and Tom Roberts, allowed her to expand her own artistic practice. Inspired by Japanese woodblocks and the costumes of the Ballet Russe, Proctor began to create watercolours and decorative fans that were later exhibited in the Royal Academy of Art in London. In 1912, Proctor became the first female Australian artist to exhibit at the Venice Biennale.

In 1925, following her return to Australia, Proctor exhibited her Japanese-inspired woodblock prints with fellow Australian modernist Margaret Preston. As her practice evolved throughout the years, Proctor’s exploration of modernism in art and design were similarly reflected in her status as a tastemaker and expert in fashion. Until her death in 1966, Proctor would encourage early-career artists to create and innovate within their artistic practices. Her artworks are held at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, National Gallery of Australia, the National Portrait Gallery and more.

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