Timeline 1950 – 1959

Murch commissioned to paint “Arts of Peace”  and “Arts of War” – 2 murals for the Forgan Smith Building at the University of Queensland. Murch paints a portrait of George Wallace for his Archibald Prize entry.

George Wallace, oil on board 100.5 x 81cms Rockhampton Art Gallery

October – Daughter, Michelle, is born.

Baby Michelle 1951 oil on masonite

Ria Murch, responding to the need to support the family (the income of an artist is tenous) returns to work in 1954, travelling to the city each day from Avalon. Arthur stays at home and cares for Michelle, teaching her to read and write while he paints.

Arthur continues to paint and sculpt when Michelle starts school. Teaching at Evening Colleges and Narrabeen Girls High School.

Many works of the 1950’s depict beach scenes, landscapes, trees and subjects inspired by the beautiful environment of the northern beaches of Sydney.

Rock Shelter, oil on board Castlemaine Art Gallery and Historical Museum

Michelle, 1955 pastel on paper 42 x 37cms Murch Estate

Childhood Pleasures 1954 oil on composition board 66.2 x 84 cm Bequest of J. R. Trennery 1954, Manly Art Gallery and Museum