The introduction of modernism in Australia is a more complex phenomenon than previously thought. Choose one aspect of modernism, either Cubism, Surrealism, Expressionism, or Modernist design and architecture, and follow their development in Australia, focusing on the work of two artists, designers or architects. The modernist movement in Australia was inspired by the European avant-garde. In the mid-1910s, the first wave of modernism was felt through the influx of migrants, exhibitions and expatriates. Over the next five decades, modernism experienced turbulent changes such as economic depression, world wars, technological advancements and massive social changes, which undoubtedly further influenced the artistic output of Australian modernists. The introduction of modernism to Australia is a more complex phenomenon. Its complex and unfamiliar language was often met with strong and passionate resistance from the masses. The development of modernist sentiments was largely the result of spasmodic cultural transformations and the resulting creative exchanges between architects, modern artists, and designers. For research purposes, this article will deal solely with Surrealism, an important aspect of Modernism and trace its development through two contemporary Australian Surrealists – James Gleeson and Sidney Nolan. Before we begin our discussion on selected Australian surrealists, background discussion on surrealism, its influence and impact is necessary. Surrealism was the first international art movement in Australia. In fact, European surrealists perceived Australia as a "surreal place" because of its vastness, its distance from other continents and its "down under" appeal. When the surrealist movement was born... middle of paper ... the greatest achievements of any painter, not only in Australia, but around the world, working in our time. » A comparison between Nolan and Gleeson The attitude towards surrealist paintings reveals a clear distinction: while Nolan's painting is mainly defined by the socio-political environment of that era without expressing any opinion; Gleeson's surrealism expresses the conscious, subconscious and unconscious human mind. While Nolan is involved in demonstrating Ned Kelly's heroics; Gleeson is obsessed with depicting humanity's universal struggle against barriers. Nonetheless, both styles resonated well with the Australian masses. In other words, their artistic works accomplish the cultural transformation of a certain period and both painters also contribute to changing the perspective of people who see Australia, the outback, for the very first time..