Margaret Olley (1923 - 2011) was one of Australia's most significant and prolific 20th / early 21st century painters, whose work was the subject of more than 90 solo exhibitions. Her particular focus was on painting still life and interior compositions. On 12 June 2006, she was awarded Australia's highest civilian honour, the Companion of the Order of Australia, 'for service as one of Australia's most distinguished artists, for support and philanthropy to the visual and performing arts, and for encouragement of young and emerging artists'.
