Sir William (Will) Ashton OBE (1881–1963) was the son of James Ashton, who founded Adelaide’s Norwood Art School in 1885 and its Academy of Arts in 1895. Will Ashton studied first under his father, and then in Cornwall and Paris. On his return from Europe he successfully exhibited impressionist style pictures of Parisian street scenes, Dieppe quays and other picturesque landmarks and resorts. Over the course of his career in Australia, London and Paris he achieved consistent success adhering to the same general style and themes. Like Lionel Lindsay, Ashton was a vociferous and influential opponent of the modern art movement in Australia.
Collection: National Portrait Gallery
Gift of Richard King 2008
Donated through the Australian Government's Cultural Gifts Program
Richard King (16 portraits)
On one level The Companion talks about the most famous and frontline Australians, but on another it tells us about ourselves.
Johanna McMahon revels in history and mystery in pursuit of a suite of unknown portrait subjects.
Gael Newton delves into the life and art of renowned Australian photographer, Max Dupain.
