Summary

Part three of a three part oral history with Hungarian born artist Klára Donáth-Patay, recorded on 16 April 1999. Klára studied art and painting at university in Hungary, before she was expelled for her political views. She then trained and worked as a costume designer for the many theatres in Budapest. After escaping Hungary in 1956 and immigrating to Australia, Klára worked in a variety of jobs to support her family.

In Australia Klára has continued to create work in her chosen medium of textile art. Much of Klára's work draws upon her Hungarian cultural origins and Bartok's music is a constant source of inspiration for her.

Description of Content

Part three of a three part oral history with Klara Donath-Patay, a Hungarian born artist. Klara discusses her move from Adelaide to Melbourne where she found work as a freelance artist for a large advertising agency. During this time she did lots of work as a fashion illustrator for magazines such as Vogue (both Australian and International editions). Then the rise of fashion photography saw Klara's work opportunities decline so she decided to put her teaching qualifications to use and approached the Education Department and was able to secure a position teaching art at a high school in Glenroy. She then moved to Our Lady of Mercy College, which was closer to home, where she remained for 17 years eventually becoming the co-ordinator of art, with eight teachers under her. Klara then discusses her art practice her in Australia, particularly her work as a fibre artist her inspiration and ways of working.

Physical Description

Digital audio tape

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