Two UniSA Books Reveal the Story Behind South Africa Creative Legacy. The University of South Australia (UniSA) is marking an important moment in its creative history with the release of two significant books that explore how its people, programs and institutions have shaped South Australia’s cultural identity.
These new publications highlight UniSA’s long-standing contribution to architecture, design, filmmaking, visual arts and creative education. They also arrive at a key time as the University prepares to transition into the new Adelaide University in 2026.
Deep Dive Into UniSA’s Creative Legacy
UniSA’s creative disciplines have influenced generations of artists, professionals and cultural leaders in South Australia. The University’s roots stretch back to the historic South Australian School of Art, one of the oldest art institutions in Australia. Its graduates have contributed to the state’s evolving identity through public design, urban development, film production, education, and community arts.
The two latest books capture this impact with firsthand research, personal stories and expert analysis.
Degrees of Impact: Creative Conversations That Shaped a State
Award-winning writer and UniSA academic Dr Nathan James Crane has released Degrees of Impact, a collection of academic conversations that explore how UniSA’s creative community has influenced South Australia’s cultural and professional environment over several decades.
The book looks at how UniSA’s graduates and staff strengthened areas such as city planning, architectural design, arts festivals, visual communication, screen production and arts education. Dr Crane explains that UniSA’s presence can be seen across the state’s creative landscape through public buildings, urban renewal projects, community arts initiatives and international recognition such as Adelaide’s status as a UNESCO City of Music.
The publication features contributions from well-known academics and professionals including Dr Jane Andrew, Benjamin Altieri, David Morris, Joti Weijer-Coghlan, Stephen Yarwood, Dr Damian Madigan and Julie Nichols. Their conversations uncover the human experience behind the University’s programs, how teaching methods evolved over time, and how industry partnerships shaped student success.
The book also reflects on how creative education helps build cultural identity and how institutions adapt during periods of transformation. Dr Crane describes the project as a tribute to a team that embraced experimentation, collaboration and long-term impact.
Celebrating 170 Years of the South Australian School of Art
The second publication, written by historical researcher and visual arts writer Dr Jenny Aland, celebrates the 170-year journey of the South Australian School of Art. Her book, South Australian School of Art: 170 Years Shaping South Australian Visual Arts and Culture, traces the school’s development from its origins to its modern-day influence.
Dr Aland highlights that the school not only predates all three Adelaide universities but also played a central role in shaping Australia’s visual arts landscape. Through rich illustrations and detailed historical research, the book explores the school’s growth during periods of social, political and cultural change.
It also features major figures who studied or taught at the school, including Sydney Ball, Annette Bezor, Dorrit Black, Barbara Hanrahan, Fiona Hall, Franz Kempf, Trevor Nickolls, Jeffrey Smart, Angela Valamanesh, Hossein Valamanesh and Margaret Worth. Their work continues to influence Australian and international art.
Why These Books Matter Today
Both books capture the spirit of a creative community that has helped South Australia grow into a vibrant cultural hub. They document key achievements, personal stories, creative movements and institutional progress that have shaped generations of artists and professionals.
As UniSA moves toward its transition to Adelaide University in 2026, these publications preserve an important creative history while inspiring future innovation. They offer students, researchers, educators and art lovers a deeper understanding of how creative education contributes to society.
Where to Access the New Publications
Degrees of Impact is available as a free digital edition through UniSA’s website and university library.
South Australian School of Art: 170 Years Shaping South Australian Visual Arts and Culture is available for purchase through approved outlets.
