Eternity Remastered Film (FREE EVENT- Tickets limited)

The story of Arthur Stace, our first graffiti artist who famously chalked the word Eternity on Sydneys streets

Introduced by the producer Susan MacKinnon

A brand-new restoration, courtesy of the National Film and Sound Archive's digital restoration program, of filmmaker Lawrence Johnston's stunning documentary, Eternity. Johnston's 1994 award winning film tells the story of Sydneysider Arthur Stace, who famously chalked the word 'Eternity' in elegant copperplate handwriting on the streets of his hometown. Stace had a hard life, growing up in inner-city poverty, working as a stretcher bearer in World War I, returning to Sydney a chronic alcoholic. In 1930, however, he embraced Christianity, sobered up, and started his life's work - going out each night to write his anonymous message on Sydney's pavements. Today, his message is a Sydney icon, referenced by artists like Martin Sharp, and emblazoned across Sydney Harbour Bridge as part of the 2000 New Year's Eve celebrations. 

The film, using interviews, and with haunting images of the city's once grand architecture (vividly filmed in black and white by Oscar-winning cinematographer Dion Beebe), recreates Stace's extraordinary story.

Presented by the National Film and Sound Archive’s digital restoration program – NFSA Restores – reviving our cinema icons.

Film duration: 60 minutes Followed by live music...

Drinks and nibbles provided...