Who was Eric Thake?

For most of his life Eric Thake lived in and around Melbourne, a city he loved and which was a constant source of inspiration for his art. This website explores the art of Eric Thake by drawing on items in the State Library of Victoria's collection. These items include an unsurpassed collection of manuscript materials, drawings, sketches, photographs, prints, and illustrations. Words and images from the Library’s collections of Thake's papers and artwork - some never before published - will lead you into his world of wry humour and bold designs.

	Biographical Sketch A brief biographical sketch of the artist.
	Aborigines in Art Thake's sympathy for the Australian Aborigines' condition emerges in a number of images in his oeuvre.
	Art of the Book The art of the book played an important part in the artistic life of Eric Thake.
	Central Australian Expedition In 1952 Thake participated in the Ornithological Union's 'camp out' in Central Australia.
	Christmas Cards Linocuts were the vehicle for Thake's subtle sense of humour.
	Melbourne Memories The art of Eric Thake was constantly documenting the changes in Melbourne.
	War Artist In 1943 Eric Thake enlisted in the Royal Australian Air Force working originally as an architectural draftsman.
	About this Site Acknowledgements, checklist of items in the Library's collections, notes on printing techniques, and bibliography.