Beloved Australian writer who was awarded an Officer of the Order of Australia dies aged 95

Beloved Australian writer who was awarded an Officer of the Order of Australia dies aged 95

As a devoted admirer of the arts, I have always been captivated by the enchanting stories and profound wisdom that emanate from the creative minds of our world. One such luminary who has graced us with her presence for nearly a century is Barbara Blackman, an Australian writer, poet, essayist, and patron of the arts whose impact on the cultural landscape is immeasurable.


On a peaceful Friday, the cherished Australian author and arts patron, Barbara Blackman, passed away at the age of 95 due to natural reasons.

Barbara Patterson, known later as Blackman, spent her birth year (1928) in Brisbane, Australia. She was a distinguished figure in the literary world, penning essays, poems, and novels, while also supporting the thriving Australian art community for several decades.

From 1952 to 1978, she was the wife of the renowned Australian artist Charles Blackman, who passed away in 2018. She served as the inspiration behind numerous pieces he created during their time together.

In her statement, Blackman’s daughter, Christabel, shared the sad news that was filled with beauty: ‘With Beatles music, scripture, and poetry, we said our farewell in the most extraordinary way. She truly was exceptional.’

Barbara often emphasized the importance of taking a broader perspective. In essence, she immersed herself deeply in the richness of life’s experiences.

Despite facing major challenges early in her life, including a legal blindness diagnosis, Blackman emerged as a prominent advocate for the arts community, utilizing her intellect and experiences to make a significant impact.

Known for her remarkable memoirs and poems, she frequently drew from her own life events and relationships, such as her marriage to Charles, to create her work.

Over the course of her professional life, Blackman penned numerous essays and analyses about literature and art, revealing her unique perspectives on artistic creation and the cultural panorama of Australia.

Beloved Australian writer who was awarded an Officer of the Order of Australia dies aged 95

Her works gained acclaim for their profound emotional resonance and insightful examination of both individual and collective topics.

Additionally, she played a generous role in supporting Australia’s artistic community by providing substantial financial contributions to events like the Canberra International Music Festival and the Australian Chamber Orchestra.

2017 saw a documentary titled “Seeing From Within,” focusing on Blackman, where she delved into her extended and illustrious career.

Beloved Australian writer who was awarded an Officer of the Order of Australia dies aged 95

In appreciation for her years of dedication to the arts, Blackman received the title of Officer in the Order of Australia in 2012.

She outlived her ex-husband Charles, who died in 2018 aged 90.

Blackman is survived by her children Auguste and Christabel. 

Beloved Australian writer who was awarded an Officer of the Order of Australia dies aged 95

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2024-10-09 12:40

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