Ambassador Hayhurst welcomed Japanese-Australian artist, Ms Hiroe Swen AM, at his Residence this week.
Ms Swen was born and educated in Kyoto, Japan. After studying oil painting at high school, Ms Swen embarked on her artistic career.
Ms Swen began creating ceramics in the late 1950s and became a pioneer for women ceramicists in Japan. In 1960s, Ms Swen married Mr Cornel Swen, an Australian artist/designer and moved to Sydney, and then later to Queanbeyan.
Ambassador Hayhurst commented:
“Ms Hiroe Swen AM, renowned ceramicist and educator, visited the Embassy to see again her works which we are so proud to display.’
“Hiroe’s art links Australia and Japan.”
Ms Swen was appointed as a Member of the Order of Australia in recognition of her long-standing contributions as a ceramicist and an educator in Australia last year.
More information about Ms Swen’s creative passion and journey to Australia is available on her digital archive.