The backs of Sidney Nolan’s paintings reveal an intriguing body of historical information. They bear a rich layering of inscriptions in the artist’s hand and those of his associates, alternative titles, crossed out and re-written and paper labels bearing exhibition, sale and travel details. 

Working with the conservation team undertaking the Nolan conservation project, Canberra Museum + Gallery will gain access to document and research, the backs of the paintings. Gaining further insight into where the paintings travelled and how they were exhibited and interpreted over the years prior to coming to Canberra and the 50 odd years since. 

This exhibition will display digital imagery of the backs alongside the Nolan Foundation Collection, and we invite visitors to join in the detective work to experience what is involved in researching the provenance of an artwork.