Skip to main content
Strange Signals
Strange Signals
Strange Signals

Strange Signals

Artist (Newburgh, Scotland, 1883 - 1959)
Date1919
Mediumetching on paper
ClassificationsMcBey
DimensionsPlate Size: 22.6 x 39cm
AcquisitionPresented in 1959 by Mr H H Kynett.
Copyright© Aberdeen City Council (McBey Collection)
LocationOn Display - Gallery 13
Object numberABDAG002931
About MeMcBey met Australian officers, Colonel George Langley and Major Mills in July 1917 and spent several days sketching camels and men before going on reconnaisance with them. He describes his first outing with the Australian Camel Patrol on 11 July - "At dawn before sunrise was wakened. Hurriedly packed stuff in cool blue morning. Camel at door. Little bit nervous but after mounting felt alright. Does not appear so far from ground as I thought it would." The following day he notes, " Find it very difficult to sketch while camel is moving. Landscape wonderful. Shadows coming like big waves over the sand."
More About Me
How does the title affect what you think of this work by James McBey? Does it feel mysterious, or perhaps dangerous? What title would you give this work?
Exhibitions