“This enchanting work dating from Nolan's early career in the Melbourne suburb of St Kilda makes reference, through its title Halcyon, to an ancient Greek myth associated with the kingfisher, depicted here at rest on its floating nest. According to legend the father of the young Halcyon ordered the winds to stay calm during the brooding period so that the floating nest of the kingfisher would not be disturbed. Hence the term "halcyon days". 

For Sidney Nolan his early days in St Kilda might indeed be called halcyon. During the mid 1940s the artist painted an extensive body of works recording life around Luna Park and at the St Kilda sea baths, including reminiscences from his childhood. In addition Nolan also painted numerous images relating to the Greek myth of Icarus, transposed into the environs of St Kilda. 

Halcyon‚ was a work of particular personal attachment for Nolan, to the extent that he loaned the painting with the Art Gallery of New South Wales for an extended number of years. Nolan was especially attached to his early work as it provided him with immense stimulus for later projects. As Halcyon‚ is depiction of two of his favourite subjects birds and mythology, it is understandable why this painting was so treasured by the artist.”

Text by curator and art writer: Damian Smith