Historical information

Margaret Olley (24 June 1923 – 26 July 2011)
Born Lismore, New South Wales

In 1941 Margaret commenced classes at Brisbane Central Technical College. In 1943 Olley moved to Sydney and enrolled in an art Diploma course at East Sydney Technical College graduating in 1945 with A-class honours. She is known as a still-life and interior painters Margaret who drew inspiration from her home and studio, and the beauty of the everyday objects she gathered around her. Her paintings often feature arrangements of fruits and flowers, set amid domestic ware art and souvenirs of her travels.

For her service as an artist and to the promotion of art, she was awarded the Order of Australia in 1991 and made a Companion of the Order of Australia in 1996.

This item is part of the Federation University Art Collection. The Art Collection features over 2000 works and was listed as a 'Ballarat Treasure' in 2007.

Physical description

Framed oil painting of an apple on a table with red gingham cloth.