Exploring the relationship of colours

Wed 14 May 2025

Mary Norrie (16 May 1917–2005) was an influential exponent of hard-edge abstraction and colour-field painting in Brisbane, her work Green abstract 1970 (illustrated) explores the relationship of colours in vertical stripes. The colour scheme of greens and yellows enlivened with muted reds; carefully balanced width of the stripes and their tonal variations, sets up a rhythm across the painting. Norrie consistently pursued her interest in pure abstraction, her explorations of colour evoke a strong emotional response.

Mary Norrie Green abstract 1970

In Brisbane, during the late 1960s, Norrie was painting abstract work contemporary with the paintings in Sydney and Melbourne which were so acclaimed in 'The Field' exhibition of hard-edge abstraction in Australia, hosted by the National Gallery of Victoria in 1968. In contemporary reviews, Brisbane critic, Dr Gertrude Langer, recognised that Norrie's work of the late 1960s–70s was about colour for its own sake, the emotional resonance it afforded, and the integrity of the painted surface.

Alongside Joy Hutton and Irene Amos, Norrie was part of the Wednesday Group of women artists, who sublet a studio at St Mary's Anglican Church in Kangaroo Point every week from 1961.

Joy Hutton Garden 1975

Irene Amos Frail form 1975

Delve into the QAGOMA Collection

Mary Norrie Red square with stripes c.1971

Red square with stripes is reliant on the subtle gradations of related colour surrounding its border. Artist and teacher, Roy Churcher, described the painting (Telegraph [Brisbane], 19 May 1972) as 'A contained and finely balanced painting which is completely abstract in that it is not meant to look like anything except itself. It has a quiet musical quality, with a soft inner glow that makes it a painting of considerable dignity'.

Mary Norrie Focal point c.1971

With its subtle gradations of closely related colours across the well-defined quadrant shapes of Focal point, Norrie allows her planes to jostle, pushing and pulling against one another. The painting has a resonance with Red square with stripes, both simple designs focussing on the elements of colour, shape, balance and harmony.