NEWCASTLE'S unshakeable reputation as a steel town, even all these years after BHP's departure, has always given short shrift to its cultural contributions. But in John Olsen, the Hunter offered the origin of a titan in the art world who will not be forgotten.
While he may hail from this region, his education took Olsen to Sydney. He also spent years in Europe before returning and cementing his place with the "You beaut country" series. But while he spent his time away from regional NSW, the pull of the Australia that shines beyond the city lights was one that never relented on his work.
