The Shanty on the Rise 1922

Lionel Lindsay created "The Shanty on the Rise" as a drypoint on paper. It reflects a deeply personal connection to the Australian landscape and the lives of its rural inhabitants. Through the visual language of the print, the viewer is invited to consider the intersection of class, labor, and belonging in early 20th-century Australia. The shanty, a rudimentary dwelling, stands as a symbol of both resilience and marginalization of the working class. Lindsay’s choice to depict the workers from behind, their faces obscured, suggests a focus on their collective identity as laborers rather than individual portraits. The presence of the dog, a common motif in depictions of rural life, adds a layer of emotional depth, symbolizing loyalty and companionship in a harsh environment. The date inscribed on the print situates it within a specific historical moment, inviting reflection on the economic and social conditions of the time. It captures a moment of quiet determination, mirroring the broader narratives of nationhood and identity.