Great Southern Landscapes: Aug 23

Tonight on ABC in Great Southern Landscapes Rachel Griffiths voyages to Kati Thanda – Lake Eyre to find the spot where John Olsen drew inspiration for his 1975 painting of Lake Eyre.

Veteran artist John Olsen invites Rachel into his home and studio to discuss his first trip to Lake Eyre in 1974, when the lake filled to capacity. This life-altering trip to Lake Eyre would have an enduring impact on the artist’s work and career.

Accompanied by Olsen’s son Tim, a respected gallery owner, Rachel heads to William Creek, a one-pub town built in 1887 as a remote stop on the old Ghan railway line.

This vast area has been populated by First Nations people for tens of thousands of years yet it was only in 2012 that the lands, its lake and its original name were returned and reclaimed by the Arabana people. It is now known as Kati-Thanda.

At the edge of this almighty body of water, Rachel chats with Martha Watts and Colleen Strangways, elders of the Arabana people and custodians of this country. They welcome Rachel to their country and speak of the emotional significance of the return of Native Title and their joy of being on country.

As a final marvel to end their journey, Rachel and Tim take to the skies in a light plane to see if they can identify the spot where John Olsen was inspired to paint his iconic artwork.

8pm tonight on ABC.