How does Margaret Preston achieve her key aim in her work?

Question

In her essay 'From Eggs to Electrolux', printed in the 1927 edition of Art in Australia, Preston explained her love of modern design particularly new vacuum cleaners because they 'freed women'. She also explained what she considered to be art's first aim: 'to delight the mind, not the eye...the mind must rule the eye'. How does she achieve this aim in her work?

Answer 1

Margaret Preston achieves her key aim of delighting the mind, rather than just the eye, in her work through a combination of stylistic choices, subject matter, and underlying conceptual frameworks.

In essence, Margaret Preston's work deliberately moves beyond simple visual appeal. By simplifying forms, employing non-naturalistic color, incorporating Indigenous influences, and choosing subjects with underlying ideas, she compels the viewer to actively engage their mind in interpreting, understanding, and appreciating the artistic intent and conceptual depth of her creations.

She aimed to create art that resonated intellectually, prompting thought and reflection rather than just fleeting visual pleasure.