Historical information

This photograph was reproduced on the cover of the magazine 'Housewife, Home and Family', in October, 1960 with the heading, 'Miss Frances Burke, Brilliant Australian Textile Designer'. The photograph contains interesting contradictions: Burke, wearing a cocktail hat whilst painting, was never a housewife, nor did she have children. Gladys Hain, editor of the magazine, exhorted women who did have children to get busy, start businesses and contribute to the economy! The image highlights Burke's ability to attract publicity and demonstrates her acute understanding of the power of PR and marketing. Burke established her textile business in 1937, developing it between the wars in a very challenging marketplace by capitalising on opportunities as they presented.

Robyn Oswald-Jacobs, 2017

Physical description

Photograph featuring Frances Burke painting at desk