Australian screen icon Rachel Griffiths is embarking on a profound new creative journey, shifting from acting to storytelling behind the camera in a groundbreaking documentary series that explores the powerful intersection of art and warfare.
The acclaimed Muriel's Wedding and Six Feet Under star has created and will present Art + Soul, a thought-provoking three-part series premiering on ABC and ABC iview that examines how Australian artists have responded to conflict throughout history.
From Battlefields to Canvases
Griffiths delves into the emotional and psychological impact of war through the lens of Australian creativity. The series spans from the First World War to contemporary conflicts, revealing how artists have processed trauma, documented history, and found meaning amid chaos.
'I've always been fascinated by how artists bear witness to the most challenging moments in human experience,' Griffiths explains. 'This series is about understanding how creativity emerges even in the darkest times.'
A Personal Connection to Military History
The project holds special significance for Griffiths, whose own father served in the Australian military. This personal connection fuels her authentic exploration of how war shapes both individual lives and national identity.
The documentary features:
- Rare archival footage and personal letters from war artists
- Contemporary Australian artists discussing conflict's influence on their work
- Historical analysis of how war art has evolved over generations
- Behind-the-scenes access to major Australian art collections
Australian Stories with Global Resonance
While focusing on Australian perspectives, the series tackles universal themes about human resilience, memory, and the enduring power of artistic expression. Each episode examines different conflicts and the diverse artistic responses they inspired.
Griffiths brings her signature emotional intelligence and curiosity to the presenter role, creating an accessible yet deeply moving viewing experience that promises to change how Australians understand both their art history and military legacy.
The series represents Griffiths' continued evolution as a storyteller, following her successful directorial work on shows like Total Control. Art + Soul premieres this Sunday at 7:30pm on ABC TV, offering audiences a unique perspective on the enduring relationship between creativity and conflict.
