Art in Australia, No. 2, 1917 is a fascinating collection of essays, poems, and artwork that provides a snapshot of the Australian art scene during the early 20th century. The contributors offer insights into various artistic movements, including modernism and nationalism, as well as reflections on the impact of World War I on the creative community.

The publication features a diverse range of voices, from established artists to up-and-coming talents, showcasing the breadth of talent in Australia at the time. The artwork included in the magazine is particularly striking, capturing the vibrancy and energy of the period.

While some of the essays may be a bit dense for casual readers, the overall message of the publication shines through: that art is a powerful tool for expression and reflection, even in times of turmoil and uncertainty. Art in Australia, No. 2, 1917 is a valuable resource for anyone interested in Australian art history and the cultural landscape of the early 20th century.

Book Description:
In 1916, three prominent identities in the Sydney art world - Sydney Ure Smith, Bertram Stevens and Charles Lloyd Jones - got together to publish Australia's first art magazine. Their aim was to make the work of Australian artists known to the Australian public, and, through high quality reproductions, to give an idea of its quality to those who were unable to see the originals. All of the 102 issues of Art in Australia, published between 1916 and 1942 have now been made available, complete with illustrations, on the National Library of Australia's Trove web site. The second issue of the magazine consisted mainly of short biographical sketches of contemporary Australian artists, including Charles Conder, Arthur Streeton and Hans Heysen, illustrated by examples of their work. - Summary by Phil Benson