Former Palings facade

Artist Statement: Designed by Alfred Menkens in 1906 with additions made in 1911, at the time of his association with the architect Frederick Castleden. It was built for AA Dangar as offices in the Federation Free style. It later became the Palings Music Store. This style was not bound by rules, often using asymmetrical massing, and classical elements if used were played with – incomplete, distorted or placed in unusual contexts. Different combinations of walling materials were often used for tonal and textural contrast. Sometimes touches of Art Nouveau were used, particularly in building lettering. - Holly NcNamee.

Medium: Conte on arches paper
Dimensions: 56 x 38 cms
Date: 2011
Condition: New

CHG Director's Statement: Maitland artist, Holly McNamee, as her contribution to the National Trusts Heritage Festival, depicts back streets and lanes of some of the historic byways of Maitland and Newcastle, areas maybe not so familiar to the casual passer-by, but viewed by the artist as an integral aspect of a city.

The architectural heritage of a city is often revealed from the rear end of the main thoroughfare. The back view showing the utilitarian side of the building, whether a commercial occupation, or residential, often hidden behind a gracious faade presenting the public street face. Stevenson Place in Newcastle East, with its complex and impressive terraces, topped by ornate parapets, looking outwards to the harbour, hides a multiplicity of chimneys, roof lines and outbuildings serviced by back lanes. The western end of Maitlands High Street also has such examples, but this time with shops lining the main street, residences above, and the rear service lane providing a view of the domestic aspect.

Maitland, typical of a city evolving along a working road, still retains examples of now historic homes which occupied the main road in and out of the commercial heart of the town. Old Maitland Road and High Street are now by-passed by the highway, which keeps the endless flow of traffic from old narrow streets, but perhaps also hiding these architectural gems from the wider public view, something this artist is hoping to rectify.

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