F3A. AUSTRALIA: The Wonder Down Under
Literature & Writing | Registration closed 6/14/2025
Description: This class will provide a fascinating look at all things Australian, from its inception as a European colony to today’s rich and varied country of 27 million people. Students will examine Australia’s literature, art, music, government, geography, and animals. They will understand the Aboriginal relationship with the land for 50,000 years, the mission experience, and the "lost generation.” The course also examines early settlers, outback experiences, gold field riots, and Suffragists. Students will read contemporary writings on Australia’s role in Gallipoli, Vietnam, racism, and the immigrant experience. Readings, most of which are no longer than one page, will be sent ahead of time.
- Photo courtesy of the Presenter
Michael Beames
Presenter
Michael Beames, a native of Adelaide, South Australia, discovered his lifelong passions for art, history, and storytelling early on. While attending a student exchange program at Buffalo State College, he met Sara, who would become his partner in life and adventure. After earning a bachelor’s degree in education and teaching in the Australian bush, he reunited with Sara in San Francisco. Michael subsequently transitioned to a career in the graphics industry. In 1990, he and Sara embraced entrepreneurship by founding a glass giftware company in New York’s Hudson Valley.
Carol DeBartolis
Session Manager/Class Manager
Carmela Gersbeck
Class and Session Manager
Gary Miller
Producer & Presenter
Gary Miller (LLI) is a veteran photojournalist, writer, filmmaker, and live television director with more than 40 years of experience working for clients such as Time, Newsweek, Children’s Television Workshop, Fortune 500 companies, museums, and galleries. He has taught freelance photography at The New School for Social Research and is the author of a book on the subject.