Under the
Big Top
10 January - 29 May 2007
Under the Big Top features a fascinating selection of
objects that reflect on the broad themes of the circus and popular entertainment.
Circus-like events have been enjoyed since the Roman period when chariot-racing, duels and
wild animals regularly entertained Rome’s citizens. The circuses we see today, however, owe their
origin to Philip Astley, who established the first circus in London in 1770. Such was Astley’s
success that his acts, in which human and animal displays were combined, were widely copied and the
modern circus was born.
Lorraine JENYNS, Australia, born 1945,
Bring on the big cats, 1977, Daylesford, Victoria,
earthenware, 62.0 cm, 35.0 cm (diam), South Australian Government Grant 1978, Art Gallery of South
Australia, Adelaide.
Under the Big Top looks at artists who have been inspired
directly and indirectly by the distinctive performances and transgressive personalities that make
up the rich flavour of circus life. A highlight of the display is the Gallery’s marvelous Circus
dinner set designed by British artist Laura Knight for Bizarre, by Clarice Cliff, in 1934. Knight,
better known as a painter of circus subjects, combines the bright colours so characteristic of
Cliff’s own work to create a remarkable dinner setting. Decorated with clowns, acrobats and
performing animals, this fifty-eight-piece setting even includes a lamp. The circus performers
climb up the circus tent pole lamp stand; the silk shade surrounding the lamp resembles a circus
tent.
Other objects include Brigitte the bearded lady, 1977, one of several humorous and colourful
studio ceramics by Lorraine Jenyns. A perennial favourite, Burt Flugelman’s Tattooed lady, 1974,
has found a new home in the circus. Flugelman used the rich tradition of the inked skin as the site
from which to titillate and shock the viewing audience - this lady was being ‘tattooed’ with
Japanese couples engaged in sexual activity! Funky and erotic shoes make an appearance, and those
with a penchant for footstools might enjoy the Elephant footstool by American Funk Art Movement
artist David Gilhooly. So why not have a little fun this summer and experience our very own
Under the Big Top.
