The Evatts, liberalism and modernism

Scholar, author, lawyer, judge, politician, statesman and sports fanatic, Dr Herbert Vere Evatt was one of the most dominant and controversial protagonists in twentieth-century Australian history. Contemporaries and historians alike have noted the complexities of his personality and the inconsistencies seemingly inherent in his polices. This article situates Evatt in a liberal tradition by focussing on his first published book, Liberalism in Australia, and relates his progressive political thoughts to his views on artistic expression. It also explores the background and activities of his wife, Mary Alice Evatt, who was both an arts enthusiast and administrator. Mary Alice, whose activities are only now being explored by historians such as Barbara Dale and Jane Hunt, played as important role in supporting the work of artists, providing links between interstate and overseas art schools, and educating Australians about modernist art.