Convict inspires art
The true story of an escaped convict and decades in the bush will be depicted when Rokeby artist Phil Henshall displays paintings at his studio this weekend.
Phil was inspired by William Buckley’s 32 years in the wildness as well as events from his Melbourne years.
In 1803, Colonel Collins sailed into Port Phillip with a shipload of convicts with the intention - amongst other things - of establishing a penal settlement. He chose a bay near what is now Sorrento.
On Boxing Day, three men Buckley, McAllenan and Pye escaped and ran and walked around the bay to the western side - Bellarine Peninsula. Two decided to return and were never seen again and one, William Buckley, decided to chance it and fend for himself.
Phil says that in July 1835, Buckley walked into the Batman encampment at Indented Head dressed in a possum skin cloak and carrying spears. Gradually he made himself known and was then welcomed to join this party when they moved to a better “place for a village” at the head of the bay.
Phil added that Buckley, both formally and informally, became a mediator between the first people and the second newcomers, but to no avail and even placing himself in danger.
After two-and-a-half years, Buckley decided to quit the new settlement and move to Hobart where he spent the last years of his life.
Phil created his first wilderness inspired works depicting William Buckley’s life in 2003, before painting events from his Melbourne years in 2012.
These paintings can be viewed at his gallery/studio at 1116 Main Neerim Rd, Rokeby on Saturday and Sunday between 10am and 5pm or via appointment.
For further information, call Phil Henshall on 0418 318 187.