The following is a 'Futuristic Sketch'. It was written by a Swinburne student, Joyce Henty, in 1930.
"Robot No 6 met H. P Doop as he landed his monoplane at the porch. Doop enters the front door, opened the cabinet and saw a message from his wife: 'I shall be attending the Women's Socialists' meeting tonight'. 'Ah' - he reflected brightly - 'the benefits of wireless photography to see the message'.
"He seated himself resignedly in the entertaining room, with all the mod cons. At his touch the room was flooded with light and warmth. He set the wireless televisor in action and adsorbed his intellect in a bright circular. Through some static the face and figure of an aging professor appeared and the speaker stated 'In those days parents sent their children to schools or colleges'. Doop carefully removed the old man to the floor, where the old man pursued his subject unconcernedly with a fixed salesman like smile. Soon the face of the old man was replaced with the complicated curves of a Wurlitzer super 100% 'all-talkie' grand. The home was now filled with duly appreciated beauty.
"Robot No 3 announced a guest. Removing the robot's ear, Doop advised 'Supper for two' and sent the unerring and artistically designed robot to the servants' quarters.
"Robot No 2, the new safety device, interrupted an unwelcome visitor and with satisfaction Doop viewed his latest investment."
It is an Extract from Open Door, August 1930. Yes, 1930!
Joyce Henty was an Art Student 1929 -32. From the records, in 1930 she passed Advanced Model Drawing; Advanced Drawing Ornament from Cast in Light and Shade; and Drawing with the Brush.
Swinburne photographs are available from
Swinburne Image Bank and
Picture Australia.
