JF Archibald was a journo and founder of the Bulletin Magazine, he also served as a trustee of the Art Gallery of NSW.
He is responsible for Australia’s oldest and best known art prize for portraiture.
A portrait of him, commissioned by the Art Gallery of NSW trustees, was made after his death and remains as one of the pictorial records of a man who avoided having his photograph taken.
Apparently he was so pleased with this portrait that he left money in his will for an annual portrait prize, which was first awarded in 1921. His aim was to foster portraiture, as well as support artists and keep alive the memory of great Australians.
This year’s Archibald Prize Winner will be announced Friday 17th of July.
A strong contender to take out this year’s honor has already won the Packing Room Prize, Bruno Jean Grasswill won the Packing Room Prize with his portrait of Michael Caton. This is a stunning piece that captures every characteristic of the Australian actors face. A true and glowing representation of one of Australia’s most loved actors.
Another strong contender is by renowned artist Robert Hannaford. The self-portrait is a lonely image, one of isolation and sadness, though not asking for pity, there seems to be a sense of strength and self preservation coming through the work, matched with the steely gaze that keeps you engaged with the artists face.
Anala Art Advisory wishes all the artists the best of luck for this years prize, I for one can’t wait to go and view the works in the coming days.
To view all finalists for this years Archibald prize, please click on the link below.
Robert Hannaford. self-portrait, image courtesy of the AGNSW.
