Few, however, are aware of his many profiles. Born in 1937 in Milan, Italy – which probably accounts for his consistently stylish appearance – Claude Ullin was the descendent of distinguished German Jewish art collectors. Over several decades, the Ullmann family acquired significant paintings and sculptures from Renaissance Masters to French Impressionists. During World War II, when the family sought refuge in Australia, the art collection was either stolen, abandoned or dissolved through involuntary sales.
Having grown up surrounded by works of art, his interest in the visual arts first manifested itself through the advertising agency he ran in his youth. Later, in 1983, Claude published the first monograph on Jeffrey Smart – (by Peter Quartermaine with forward by Germaine Greer). Throughout his life, his enthusiasm was focused on showing the work of underrepresented artists. This led him to open Gallery Art Naïve which ran for sixteen years. Its closing in 1994 heralded Claude’s decision to specialise in Indigenous art and open High on Art gallery in Armadale. In the twenty-three years the gallery was open, Claude mentored, supported and nurtured the careers of many artists, even after the GFC of 2008. Whilst many gallerist’s flirtation with Indigenous art ended when sales declined, Claude’s commitment to the artists and their communities was uninterrupted. High on Art closed in 2017 only because of Claude’s deteriorating health.
Claude’s maternal family connection to Melbourne’s Wertheim family, of Wertheim Piano fame, may have had something to do with his love for classical music and the Opera. In 2003, Claude founded - and generously funded - the Lyric Opera Company of Melbourne. His pride and joy, the not-for-profit organisation presented works that major companies seldom considered. Through these performances, Claude launched or significantly developed the careers of dozens of singers, musicians, composers, directors and producers, many who have gone on to national and international fame. His mentorship and guidance was key to the success of the many young people who sought his guidance.
Claude’s life was defined by an unflinching resolution to get things done. Even in illness, his loyalty and commitment remained strong. Many can be forgiven for not realising that Claude battled with chronic illnesses for many years. He even attended the opening at Menzies Fine Art Auction earlier this month, where he served on the Advisory Board for many years.
Just a few months before his death, Claude was appointed a Member (AM) of the Order of Australia, celebrating his lifelong commitment to promoting the arts, multiculturalism and his work in local government.
Claude was 79 and is survived by his daughters Sophie, Emmie-Lou and Nicholas, grandchildren Marco, Camilla, Poppy, Ella, brother Albert and family.
