Jean Angus

Jean Angus

Jean Angus (1915-2005), sister of well-known artist Rita Angus, was a regular School Journal contributor in the 1950s.

Angus' work reflects the influence of modern art on illustration in New Zealand at this time. Her use of flattened space, the contrast between areas of white space and areas of close detail, and juxtaposition of heavy and light outline give her work its strong graphic quality.

In some illustrations, Angus' use of rhythm and pattern echoes medieval manuscript illumination. Her work, like that of Anne McCahon, shows a responsiveness to children’s art, with its simple and direct nature.

Permission of the National Library of New Zealand Te Puna Mātauranga o Aotearoa must be obtained before any reuse of this image.

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