A new website celebrating the life and work of Josephine Muntz Adams – one of Australia’s leading portrait artists of her generation – has officially launched.
In an era when women had no voice, Josephine Muntz Adams spoke through her art. She travelled widely, painted boldly and built a remarkable career. But, like so many of her female peers, her legacy faded while her male counterparts – Arthur Streeton, Tom Roberts, Frederick McCubbin and the like – became household names.
The website is the most comprehensive online collection of her work to date and has been created by researcher, digital curator and Josephine’s great-great-nephew Peter Muntz. It features nearly 100 artworks, along with historical insights and a biography framed through a familial lens.
The website launches on 30 March 2025 – 163 years to the day since she was born and more than 75 years after her death – marking a poignant moment to reignite her legacy.
‘Josephine was a trailblazer,’ says Muntz. ‘At a time when women were expected to stay within the domestic sphere, she travelled the world for her art and built a successful career. This website is about keeping her flame alive.’
The website also invites the public to contribute by sharing images or information about Josephine’s artworks. ‘There are still pieces out there that haven’t been catalogued. I’d love to uncover more,’ Muntz adds.
For enquiries, please contact:
Peter Muntz
Researcher and digital curator
petermuntz@hotmail.com
0488 086 962
