THE SOCIAL REVOLUTION THAT ROCKED AUSTRALIA

Eve Glenn was at the centre of the most profound change in Australia's contemporary history.  A musician, artist, printer and activist, she moved from participant to amateur historian of the Carlton 'scene' of the 1970s and 80s; a time when Australians finally found their voice and lost no time in expressing it.

"I was part of the most exciting time in Australia," Eve says.  "We were changing the world by exploring family and gender roles and shining a light on the conservatism that we believed was holding Australia to ransom."

Along the way, Eve assembled a wonderful collection of posters from that era, many of which she designed and printed, or was immersed in their message. Leski Auctions has been entrusted with the sale of more than 160 Lots, which reflect the social and cultural movements of the times, including the Vietnam War, Feminism, Land Rights and the rise of Rock-and-Roll and Punk.

This is arguably one of the most extensive collections of this period in Australia ever assembled.

"Most collectors are bystanders, never directly involved in the cause that has consumed their interest," says Charles Leski, the lead auctioneer.  "Eve by contrast was defined by this fascinating period and not only survived to tell that tale but brought some very impressive baggage from that journey." 

"Looking back, I believe we made a difference often in ways that even we didn't anticipate.", says Eve. "It might have been challenging for some, but we loved the excitement, the humour and the hope."

Lot 29: 'Beat Your Breasts' (c.1980), poster for the performance of Tasmanian band, the Ovarian Sisters.  

Screenprint on paper, 43 x 60cm.  Pre-sale estimate is $200-300.              

Lot 37: 'Rock Against Racism - Nazis Are No Fun - Smash The National Front' (c.1978). 

Rock Against Racism emerged in 1976 in response to racist attacks in the UK and support for far-right group, the National Front.

 Hand printed silk screen on paper, 75.5 x 51cm.  Pre-sale estimate $300-500.    
 

    
Lot 142: 'Films By Women - Women's Art Attacks' (1979), poster designed and printed by Eve Glenn for festival of new films by women.  Signed by Eve in pencil.  Hand printed silk screen on paper, 38 x65cm.  Pre-sale estimate is $300-500.

The auction will be held on October 29 & 30 from 12.00pm.  Details can be found at www.leski.com.au

About Eve Glenn: A family matriarch, Eve might look like your genteel elderly neighbour, but don't let looks deceive you.  She's lost none of her 'bolshie' ideals or her deep-seated fidelity to the values that were eloquently expressed by emerging writers, artists and musicians of that era, many of whom are now internationally acclaimed (albeit dead in some notable cases). 

She was also an acclaimed designer, maker and painter of parade banners, floats and painted trams.  In her 'downtime', Eve accepted corporate commissions and developed small and large-scale community mural projects Australia-wide.  She exhibited in group exhibitions in Melbourne and Sydney and has work in the Totoro Collection and The Harding Collection.

*Eve is available for interview*

About Leski Auctions
Leski Auctions was established in 1973. Today, it is regarded as one of Australia's leading auctioneers of Sporting Memorabilia, Australian Art & Antiques, Collectibles and World Philately.  Among the many significant collections that Leski Auctions has been privileged to sell are those of Shirley Strickland, Ron Clarke, Sir Reginald Ansett and former RSL President, Bruce Ruxton.  It has sold more 'baggy green' caps than any other auction house in the world.

Charles Leski is a registered valuer for the Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts' Cultural Gifts Program.  He is also the valuer of the displayed items at the National Sports Museum at the MCG, Melbourne.  

The company is located at 727-729 High Street Armadale, Victoria 3143 Australia.  
Tel +61 3 8539 6150/+61 412 053 692 and www.leski.com.au