Biographical entry: Tanner, Edwin (1920 - 1980)
- Born
- 1920
Wales - Died
- 1980
- Occupation
- Artist and Engineer
Details
Edwin Russell Tanner, artist and engineer, was born in Wales and, at the age of nine, migrated to Australia with his family. Due to the Depression he left school at thirteen, but from a beginning 'sweeping floors' at BHP Port Kembla, he studied to gain the mathematical and engineering qualifications which led to a successful professional career. He was particularly proud of his record in bridge design. In 1950 he was appointed Engineer-in-charge, Structural Design at the Hydro-Electric Commission, and enrolled part-time in art at the Hobart Technical College, where Rosamund McCulloch was an influence. He successfully pursued the two professions of consultant engineer and artist, while also studying philosophy, moving to Melbourne in 1957. His paintings, noted for 'sardonic elegance and dry cool quality', are in every state and national collection.
Jim Heys