Engage with artworks created in response to political events involving Australian prime ministers. Resources include artworks by Australian artist Penny Byrne and the Behind the Lines political cartoons website.
How do artists respond to contemporary political events?
Research
View and read about the artworks of Julia Gillard and Kevin Rudd created by Australian artist Penny Byrne.
Research the leadership change from Kevin Rudd to Julia Gillard in 2010. Why was it considered a significant event?
Discuss
What do the titles Real Julia and Saint Kevin 07 suggest about their intended meaning?
Using other resources on this page, consider how other artists interpreted issues in the wider debate about the 'Real Julia'?
Respond
Find two artworks with political messages, expressed in different art forms, for example songs, plays, paintings, drawings or sculptures.
Analyse the political messages, and how effectively the artworks are used to express them. Share your reflections with others in your class - do they agree with your interpretation?
Create
The artist Penny Byrne transforms existing objects into new artworks which offer political and social commentary.
Adapt an existing object, or create your own original object, to express a view on a current issue.
Join with others in your class to create an online exhibition of your created objects. Is there a common theme?
Civics and Citizenship – Years 8-9
History – Year 10
Visual Arts – Years 7-10
Contributors
Museum of Australian Democracy