Murals for Rabaul Church
p. 32 · Read in the full issue
WHEN Archdeacon Ralph de Voil, of New Guinea, returned to Rabaul from Sydney in March, he took back with him a unique trip tych for the Children’s Chapel of the Church of St.
George at Rabaul. The triptych, which consists of a centre mural and two side panels, is intended to link up Bible history with the surroundings familiar to the New Guinea children.
Portrayed on the main mural (centre) is the arrival of the Holy Family at Rabaul; the scene being Rabaul Harbour with the Madonna and Child in the foreground. Local atmosphere is supplied further by hibiscus and frangipanni blos soms scattered at the feet of the central figures.
Carrying the banner of St. George, the Rabaul choirboys are depicted climbing a hill in the back ground.
The side panels each represent a New Guinea savage wearing a brilliant head-dress and arrayed in ceremonial costume; while standing behind the native is an angel beseeching him to turn to the Church.
These interesting mural panels were executed by the foundation members of the Turramurra Group of Wall Painters, Mrs. A. T. Anderson, Mrs. B. Foott, and the Misses Jean and Gwen Ramsay.