Lot 20

The Artist
Thence by descent

Marie Tuck's artistic journey was marked by determination and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Beginning her studies under James Ashton at Norwood Art School, she balanced her education with work at a local nursery and florist shop to support her aspirations. Driven by a desire to refine her craft, Tuck spent eight years teaching in Perth before fulfilling her dream of moving to Paris in 1904.

Tuck's Parisian years were a period of artistic flourishing, where she embraced the freedom and inspiration of her new environment. She immersed herself in the vibrant art scene, producing works that captured the light and atmosphere of rural France with a palette dominated by rich greens, warm reds, and soft greys. Her paintings from this period, such as 'Fisherman Preparing his Nets, Brittany', reveal her masterful use of colour and her ability to infuse everyday scenes with a poetic sensibility. Despite her success, the outbreak of World War I in 1914 forced Tuck to return to Adelaide.

Back in South Australia, Tuck joined the South Australian School of Arts and Crafts, where she became a respected and influential educator. Notably, she championed the inclusion of nude models in her life drawing classes-a bold move that underscored her commitment to providing comprehensive art training. Tuck's teaching career spanned over two decades, during which she mentored a generation of artists, including notable figures like David Dallwitz, Jeffrey Smart, and Ruth Tuck. Her approach to teaching was characterised by a gentle yet firm guidance, and she was revered by her students for her dedication and passion.

Despite the financial necessity of teaching, which limited her ability to fully pursue her art, Tuck remained a devoted artist throughout her life. Her works are distinguished by their strong sense of composition, vibrant use of colour, and a palpable connection to nature. Tuck's paintings, whether large canvases or intimate studies, resonate with the light and moods of her subjects, capturing the essence of French and Australian landscapes and interiors with a nuanced sensitivity.

Hannah Ryan
Art Specialist