West Island

West IslandExplore the compelling lives of five significant New Zealanders who made their mark in Australia in 'West Island', a captivating biography authored by the acclaimed Stephanie Johnson. This meticulously crafted paperback features 288 pages detailing the adventures of Roland Wakelin, Dulcie Deamer, Jean Devanny, Douglas Stewart, and Eric Baume. Each of these remarkable figures brought their unique perspectives and talents to Australia, leaving indelible

Explore the compelling lives of five significant New Zealanders who made their mark in Australia in 'West Island', a captivating biography authored by the acclaimed Stephanie Johnson. This meticulously crafted paperback features 288 pages detailing the adventures of Roland Wakelin, Dulcie Deamer, Jean Devanny, Douglas Stewart, and Eric Baume. Each of these remarkable figures brought their unique perspectives and talents to Australia, leaving indelible footprints in the cultural landscape of the 'West Island'. Discover how Wakelin, a pioneer of the Modern Movement in Australian art, challenged stereotypes with his unassuming personality. Read about Dulcie Deamer’s vibrant life, marked by her iconic leopardskin attire and connections to Sydney's bohemian scene. The fierce feminist spirit of Jean Devanny will inspire, while Douglas Stewart showcases literary prowess that shaped Australian writing. Eric Baume, known for his edgy media presence, serves as a fascinating addition to this narrative. Perfect for history buffs and literature enthusiasts alike, 'West Island' is a must-have for your bookshelf. With dimensions of 150 x 230 mm and a sturdy paperback bind, this book is both a giftable treasure and a personal exploration into a unique cultural intersection. Place your order today with fast and reliable delivery options available.

CONDITION: Brand New
Dimensions: 150 x 230 mm
Pages: 288
Bind: paperback
Author: Stephanie Johnson Publisher: Otago University Press


Five notable twentieth-century New Zealanders who made their lives in Australia are the subject of this fascinating biographical investigation by award-winning author Stephanie Johnson. Roland Wakelin, Dulcie Deamer, Jean Devanny, Douglas Stewart and Eric Baume had little in common in personality, proclivities and politics. Yet they all experienced fame and/or notoriety in the ‘West Island’ while being largely forgotten in their country of origin. They also occasionally crossed paths in the course of eventful lives. The works of painter Roland Wakelin place him as a founder of Australia’s Modern Movement, while his modest and affable personality was the opposite of the stereotypical artist. Dulcie Deamer was a writer and libertine known for her leopardskin attire and associations with the larger-than-life characters of the Sydney bohemian set – including the ‘Witch of Kings Cross’, fellow New Zealander Rosaleen Norton. The forthright feminism and creative integrity of novelist Jean Devanny led to bitter battles with the same communist movement she devoted decades of her life to. Douglas Stewart was one of the most famous ‘Australian’ writers of his period. He was a long- term gatekeeper for Australian letters as the literary editor of the Bulletin, and then editor for publishers Angus and Robertson. Born into an unusual and unorthodox Jewish family, Eric Baume gained prominence in Australia as an early prototype of the modernday ‘shock jock’ and at one stage one of th