Rosaleen Norton (1917-1979), whose witch name was Thorn, led an extraordinary life. A visionary artist of exceptional skill, she was uncompromising in the subjects of her art and scathing of the ‘fig-leaf’ morality she observed in a conservative society that was at odds with her Bohemian nature. Norton’s reputation was such that Gerald Gardner was interviewed about her, and a piece of liturgy she wrote found its way into modern Wiccan ritual.

In this presentation, illustrated with her artwork, photos, video, and newspaper clippings, Julia Phillips explores Norton’s early life, her artistic influences, and her fascination with psychology and the occult. She looks at her formative relationships and the Bohemian world of Sydney’s Kings Cross, where she became such a fixture that she was known as ‘the Witch of King’s Cross.