illustrator, was born of Cornish parents in Adelong, Victoria, on 13 April 1882. Minnie spent much of her childhood in the Victorian Alps. With her siblings she spent her childhood recreation time prowling the hills and gullies in the valley of Wandiligong. From these childhood experiences she gained first-hand knowledge and keen powers of observation of the natural life of the hills. Minnie had no formal art training; she began her career as a schoolteacher.

Minnie’s work is strongly informed by the 'art nouveau’ illustrative style. While it is difficult to establish evidence of direct influence, her work shows similarities to the illustrative work of Arthur Rackham, falling within the 'fairy’ tradition of children’s writing and illustrating. Her books include colour plates and black-and-white (pen and ink) sketches.

Minnie Isabella Rowe (1882-1972), Gully Folk 1910, watercolour, pen and ink; original drawing for The Wand of Dawn , Melbourne 1916. Private collection, exhibited Dromkeen Collection of Australian Children’s Literature 1991.

Writers:

Gray, Pamela

Date written:

1995

Last updated:

1992