The University of Queensland

Throughout her entire working life, spanning 1911-1972, Daphne Mayo was totally committed to the world of art as reflected in her prolific sculptural output:

... I look upon myself as one of the lucky people of the world, not because of any fairy Godmother ... but to have a job in which one can express oneself ... my business is that of a sculptor ... ^[26]

Despite this, Mayo was very strongly committed to the promotion of Queensland art and art education for children. In conjunction with Vida Lahey in 1929, they established the Queensland Art Fund to purchase British art for the Queensland Art Gallery. They also secured the John Darnell Bequest in 1935 and Queensland's first Art Reference Library.

Judith McKay acknowledged in her thesis the tremendous achievements and commitment Daphne Mayo made to the promotion of Queensland art, in her various roles as the moving force behind the Art Fund, the Godfrey Rivers Bequest, Art Advisory Committee - and in 1927-1930 as Vice-President of the Royal Queensland Art Society.

Art is a necessity and not a luxury.

Art is for all, and not for a small minority.

Art is a language and not an accomplishment.

Art is a neglected language, and needs the same type and degree of training as any other language. ^[27]

She was also a foundation member of the Australian Academy of Art, Canberra in 1937; art advisor to the Australian War Memorial from 1944-1962 and the first woman trustee of the Queensland Art Gallery from 1960-1967. Mayo received the Society of Artists' Medal in 1938 and in 1959 was awarded an MBE for her services to Queensland art.

A letter from Robert Haines, Director, QAG encouraged Mayo to accept the award:

... Of course you MUST accept this honour... This was my immediate reaction ... The government in wishing to honour you is only reflecting public opinion that you are a person highly deserving of the Queen's award... Daphne I think you just have to put your personal modesty to one side... To do anything else would be churlish and would hurt everyone who knew of it... You say "distinctions make barriers" your refusal would only make barriers between you and all those who are well-wishers... ^[28]

As late as 1980, Mayo was still being acknowledged for her huge commitment and dedication to art in Queensland. The collection holds valuable research material in relation to this very important role of Daphne Mayo.

A letter to Mayo from F N Sleeman, Lord Mayor of Brisbane re the 50th Anniversary of the Official Opening of the City Hall and a special Race Meeting by Brisbane Amateur Turf Club on 12 April 1980 requests permission from Mayo to submit her name to the club:

... to honour your outstanding contribution to the beauty and artistry of the City Hall by submitting your name to them as one of the most prominent people associated with the history of it. ^[29]

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Daphne Mayo with group, Australian Academy of Art c1937, UQFL119:2 ART00494