Norman Lindsay stands as one of the most vibrant and controversial figures in Australian art history. Hailing from a renowned family of five artists, his contributions spanned a wide spectrum of activities. From penning the beloved childhood classic, ‘The Magic Pudding’, to crafting daring and once-censored works of art, Lindsays creative vision was both lively and rebellious.

‘Where Life Begins’ is an original etching dated 1923. It appears elsewhere with the title ‘Hyperborea’, a reference to an Ancient Greek mythological land where people lived in perpetual sunshine. Lindsay was entranced by the concept of Hyperborea, writing an essay on it in 1923 where he described it as a realm where “the landscape disposes itself about the people” – paths only appear where people walk, all is essential.

Etched over months, this work is the fruit of painstaking needling. Lindsay draws masses of nude figures encircling limitless space, his mastery over the line producing a luminous effect. The paradise he envisions is faithful to his imagination – a land where everyone is free, virile and forever young.

With representation across public collections, owning a Lindsay piece is not merely possessing art – it is embarking on a journey through a captivating chapter in Australian art history. A national treasure, his presence resonates in major public collections, continually sparking research, exhibitions, and dialogues. For collectors of Lindsay and important works on paper, escape to ‘Where Life Begins’.

Norman LINDSAY (1879 - 1969)
'Where Life Begins (Hyperborea)' 1923
etching on paper
Edition of 45
Image Size: 34 x 30 cm
Dimensions: 51 x 41 cm
Signed: Editioned, titled, signed and dated: No 26 / 45, Where Life Begins, Norman Lindsay 1923
Literature: Norman Lindsay Etchings: Catalogue Raisonné (Odana Editions and Josef Lebovic Gallery, 2006, cat. 247), presented under the alternative title Hyperborea. An impression of this work is represented at the National Trust Norman Lindsay Gallery and Museums, no. 20; an impression of this work is represented at the State Library of New South Wales, Folio 3.

Condition is FAIR:  This work has been assessed for conservation. It requires washing and de-acidification, with pulp filled repairs to remove silverfish tracking. With treatment, our conservators are confident that it can be restored to stable and pleasing condition. Reach out to learn more.
(c) The Artist or Assignee