Beloved Australian writer who was awarded an Officer of the Order of Australia dies aged 95

Beloved Australian writer and arts patron Barbara Blackman passed away peacefully from natural causes on Friday at the age of 95.

Born Barbara Patterson in Brisbane in 1928, Blackman was for decades a renowned writer, poet, essayist and patron of Australia’s vibrant arts scene.

She was married from 1952 to 1978 to the legendary late Australian painter Charles Blackman, who died in 2018 and was the muse for many of his works.

Blackman’s daughter Christabel confirmed the heartbreaking news in a statement: ‘We had Beatles music, writings and poetry, so it was a very beautiful farewell. She was completely extraordinary.”

“Barbara was a big believer in taking a step back and looking at the bigger picture. She lived in the poetry of life.’

Blackman overcame significant hardships early in her life after being diagnosed as legally blind and became an intellectual voice for the arts scene.

She was known for her incredible memoirs and poetry, which often reflected her personal experiences and relationships, including her marriage to Charles.

Throughout her career, Blackman wrote essays and critiques on literature and art, showcasing her insights into Australia’s creative process and cultural landscape.

Her works were celebrated for their emotional depth and eloquent exploration of both personal and universal themes.

She was also a benefactor of the Australian cultural scene, making significant monetary donations to the Canberra International Music Festival and the Australian Chamber Orchestra.

Blackman was the subject of a 2017 documentary called Seeing From Within, in which she discussed her long and celebrated career.

In recognition of her long service to the arts, Blackman was awarded the Officer of the Order of Australia in 2012.

She survived her ex-husband Charles, who died in 2018 at the age of 90.

Blackman is survived by her children Auguste and Christabel.