Claude Marquet: Ink Marks

INK MARKS

POLITICAL CARTOONS OF CLAUDE MARQUET

The Albert Kersten Mining & Minerals Museum is proud to announce its latest exhibition; Claude Marquet: Ink Marks. Ink Marks is an encapsulation of the large body of work by one of Australia’s most influential, iconic and controversial political cartoonists and showcases Marquet’s range. Self-taught, original, with a barbed humour and popular appeal, Marquet responded to the political machinations of the day with sharp edged wit and superb drawings. While Marquet was employed by the “The Australian Worker” he produced cartoons which reflected his close observations and profound insights into the 1909 Lockout in Broken Hill.

Marquet’s work was widespread, appearing across several different publications. Most prominent of these The Australian Worker and Sydney’s The Bulletin. Marquet was a staunch Labourite, and this exhibition follows his reactions to the news of the day. The (sometimes literal) demonisation of politicians, implications of corruption, class disparities, worker’s rights, the justifications of war and of conscription. In many ways, this is an accessible entry point to Australia’s recent history.

Marquet’s sudden death, at fifty-one, in a sailing accident, stopped short the life of a well-liked man and a talented cartoonist. His many fans included Henry Lawson who committed to verse his comrade’s fine qualities as a friend. Claude Marquet’s cartoons provide insights into the political and social struggles of his time.

A collection of Claude Marquet’s political cartoons will be on display at the Albert Kersten Mining & Minerals Museum until Saturday 10 April 2021. This exhibition will be open throughout the Broken Hill Heritage Festival, including opening for Good Friday and Easter Sunday.