New creative in residence inspired by history

Friday, 27 September 2024

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Thanks to generous support of the Vera Deacon Regional History Fund, the University of Newcastle Library has welcomed its first-ever Creative in Residence to bring more of our region’s history to light.

Candid picture of Dr Carl Caulfield and Paige Wright viewing a black and white, hard copy archival image in a room within the University's Library. In the background of the image there is a window, bricks, a bookcase and two out of focus picture frames.
Dr Carl Caulfield will use the Creative in Residence opportunity to create a new dramatic piece, culminating in a live community performance staged near the Library later this year, an opportunity made possible thanks to generosity of donors.

The rich historical collection of books, photographs and archives of the Auchmuty Library house a treasure trove of items from our past. Distinguished Newcastle playwright, actor and director, Dr Carl Caulfield will use archives and rare books housed in the library’s Special Collections to explore the life and work of Josef Lycett (1774 - 1828).

A convict and artist known for his topographical views of major Australian towns and dramatic landscapes, Lycett is especially known for his candid paintings recording Aboriginal culture in Newcastle and the Hunter Region.

Many people share a passion for preserving Newcastle and the Hunter Region’s history and we are excited to have Dr Caulfield researching and writing in our spaces, and using our collections’ rich stories to unearth new perspectives on the past."


Paige Wright
Manager, Special Collections
University of Newcastle Library

“Aside from his obvious talent as a meticulous painter, Lycett was also a colourful, flawed character. The material housed in Special Collections offer so much opportunity for drama, passion and insights into Newcastle in that period. It’s incredible to be able to use these resources to tell the Lycett story before a contemporary Newcastle audience,” says Dr Carl Caulfield.

Dr Caulfield will also consult with the Wollotuka Institute to gain insight into the relationships and trust Lycett formed with local Indigenous communities to create his works.

Thank you

The Vera Deacon Regional History Fund was formally established in 2008 to recognise and build on the generous donations previously made by the late Vera Deacon OAM, Honorary Doctorate, 2020. Generous donations to the Fund continue the vital work of safeguarding the region’s history as well as providing work experience for students entering the GLAM (Galleries, Libraries, Archives and Museums) sector.

If you would like to donate to the Fund or learn more about how you can support the Vera Deacon Regional History Fund, please visit newcastle.edu.au/donate-vera-deacon

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