Justus Jorgensen was born on May 12, 1893, in East Brighton, Melbourne, the third of six children born to Simon Jorgensen, a master mariner from Norway, and his wife Nora, nee Schreiber, who was born in Victoria. He undertook an apprenticeship with his uncle, architect Robert Schreiber, whereby he gained qualification as a draughtsman. After a brief stint in a government office, Jorgensen studied painting at the National Gallery schools from 1915 to 1917. He later became an assistant to Max Meldrum.
On May 1, 1924, Jorgensen married Lilya Smith, a medical student, at St Francis’s Catholic Church in Melbourne. They lived in France and England from 1924 to 1928. During their time in London, Lily completed her medical degree and worked as an anaesthetist to support her husband. Upon return to Australia in March 1928, they purchased a house in Brighton. Jorgensen established a studio on the property and taught art. In 1932, after parting ways with Meldrum, he acquired a studio in Queen Street, Melbourne. Despite his lifelong dedication to painting and teaching, he exhibited his work only three times: in 1929, 1930, and jointly with Colin Colahan in 1934. Jorgensen had reservations about commercial exhibitions and was cautious about selling his paintings.
In 1935, Lily purchased land in Eltham, where Jorgensen constructed a studio, student accommodations, and the three-story Great Hall with the help of friends and students. These structures formed the foundation of an artists’ community known as Montsalvat. The Great Hall, built with local mudstone and adorned with features like stone windows and fireplaces, had a 'gothic’ style. Over time, additional structures were added, influenced by French provincial architecture. The settlement gained prominence as a gathering place for artists and thinkers, where Jorgensen shared his artistic philosophy and life views.
At Montsalvat, Jorgensen fostered a community of artists and craftsmen, offering instruction in painting and various skills such as carpentry, sculpture, and metalwork. He encouraged a more liberated lifestyle, emphasizing self-awareness and fulfillment, including in personal relationships. During this period, Jorgensen entered into a long-term relationship with Helen Skipper, one of his followers, resulting in the birth of two sons.
Jorgensen’s reputation primarily stemmed from his role in establishing Montsalvat, his influence on artists, and his philosophical discussions. His thoughts spanned topics ranging from psychology, philosophy, and art theories to matters of love and marriage. His contrast between materialistic society and a life free from materialism left a lasting impact on many.
The social structure at Montsalvat resembled a feudal system, with Jorgensen as the central figure. Some of his followers eventually departed due to his authoritarianism. In 1963, facing financial challenges, Montsalvat opened to the public. Jorgensen became more reclusive, focusing on creating self-portraits shown to only a select few. In 1971, his son Sigmund organized an exhibition of his works at the Great Hall. Justus Jorgensen passed away on May 15, 1975, in Upper Fern Tree Gully, with his estate valued at $149,101 during probate. Per his will, Montsalvat continued to operate as an artists’ community and event venue, overseen by a trust after his passing.
- Writers:
-
James McArdle
- Date written:
- 2023
- Last updated:
- 2023
