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Alan Robert Sumner
(1911 – 1994)
The Four Seasons
c.1985-87
Stained glass, lead
Approximately 3m diameter

This beautiful stained glass window commemorates the 125th anniversary of the Municipality of Kew. It was acquired by the former City of Kew in 1985 with the assistance of Jill and Denis O'Brien. Jill O’Brien was a Councillor for the City of Kew from 1980-87 and Mayor in 1983-4.

Set into a large round opening on the east wall of Kew Library, the circular composition is divided by lead into 9 components. A central stylised sun, moon, and stars radiate out into other sections. All 4 seasons are represented.

Alan Sumner was an influential Australian artist known for his work in painting, printmaking, and stained glass design. He studied in Melbourne, Paris, and London, and pioneered screen printing as a fine art in Australia. As head of the National Gallery Art School (1953–1962) he mentored many notable artists. Sumner also completed around 100 stained glass commissions and was appointed MBE in 1962 for his contribution to the arts.

A circular stained glass window mounted into a brick wall
A circular stained glass window mounted high up in a brick wall
A circular stained glass window is mounted high in a brick wall of a public library, beneath which are rows of shelves full of books.

Artwork location

This work is located inside Kew Library, corner of Cotham Road and Civic Drive, Kew.

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