Portrait of Rex Irwin (1990)
- Community Services and Programs
- Arts and culture
- What's happening
- Spaces for hire
- Improve your community
- About our community
- Business
- Accessibility
About the work
Title: Portrait of Rex Irwin (1990)
Artist: Judy Cassab
Material: Oil on canvas
Location: Woollahra Council Chambers, Double Bay
Excerpt from Judy Cassab’s diary from 2 December 1990
Rex Irwin’s letter of last month: “My dear Judy, a belated note to tell you how much I enjoyed our portrait sessions. I am sure I learned at least as much about you as you did about me! Even if my knee was numb, my mind was not. I never cease to be amazed how revealing sitting for a portrait is. One feels exposed on the one hand and a collaborator on the other. I am very pleased with the result, but I am sorry I caused you so much trouble! You should have spoken to my mother first and she would have told you I was troublesome. One thing I really admire about you is your honesty and your inventive, but correct use of the English language – you shame those us to whom English is our native tongue.
I truly understand your devotion and love for Jancsi who is my idea of a truly good man. I am very proud to have been admitted to your pantheon of friends.
My love and thanks to you both
Rex”
Donated through the Australian Government’s Cultural Gifts Program by Judy Cassab.