The Enduring Legacy of the Archibald Prize: A Reflection on the 2024 Exhibition
"Archibald Prize 2024 winner Laura Jones with her portrait of Tim Winton at the winners announcement. Source: Art Gallery of NSW."
The Archibald Prize has long been a cornerstone of the Australian art scene, celebrated for its rich history and occasional controversies. Established in 1921 through a bequest by J.F. Archibald, founder of The Bulletin magazine, the prize was intended to promote portraiture and honor the memory of great Australians. Over the years, the Archibald Prize has sparked fierce debates about what constitutes an appropriate entry within its illustrious guidelines. Is it a portrait or a caricature? Should the subject be a person of note or an everyday individual? These evolving parameters have shaped the Archibald into what it is today—a highly sought-after prize of $100,000.
The transformations of the event are seen as both beneficial and detrimental. Opinions vary, but there is a sentiment that the magic of the Archibald might begin to fade. Once a showcase of the painting world's rock stars, it now often features works that are less memorable as viewers pass through the room. An event like this should inspire the young, the old, and the trained eye with a sense of "wow... this is amazing." In a world of diminishing returns, there is now little shock in the selection of works hung. We have been shocked to the core and now we accept. Is the work skilled or deskilled, or does it matter? With the arrow of time, we will come to say "yes"—everything has its place. But as you move further down the line, you will become less inclined to find any value in shocking the audience. If we live in a future that no longer inspires a sense of amazement, we will become less inclined to participate in viewing the show.
Caroline Zilinsky, A lucid heart – the golden age of Jacob Elordi, Oil on linen, 152.5 x 122.4cm
Despite this, there were a few highlights in this year's exhibition worth mentioning. Having personally worked on the commercial exhibition programs of Caroline Zilinsky, I can attest that her work, initially seeming like a caricature, is a highly crafted psychological interpretation of her sitters. Zilinsky's work brings forth the essence and vulnerability of her subjects through detailed lines that quiver in creating the human form. Her portrait of actor Jacob Elordi, for instance, draws inspiration from Albert Camus's philosophical essay, incorporating symbolic elements related to Elordi’s Basque heritage. The painting delves into existential themes, exploring the actor's journey and broader human conditions. Zilinsky’s detailed approach and use of symbolism create a layered, introspective portrayal, blending personal narrative with philosophical musings.
Julian Meagher, Fozz – 2024, Oil on linen 183 x 152.5cm
Julian Meagher's decision to paint Craig Foster annually marks the beginning of a new tradition. Foster, a retired soccer player and human rights activist, is captured with a sense of respect and intimacy, reflecting Meagher's deep personal connection with him. The portrait explores themes of friendship, dedication, and social advocacy. Meagher’s technique and the emotional depth of the composition effectively highlight Foster's relentless spirit and significant contributions to human rights. The portrait stands out for its ability to convey the sitter's character and the artist's genuine admiration.
In a photorealistic vein, Kelly Maree's portrait of actor Josh Heuston focuses on themes of sadness and mental health. Although an intricate photorealistic work, what drew me to it was the dramatic way the composition of the canvas had been broken up into broad, semi-flat segments of color. The intimate setting, combined with soft, gentle colors, aims to foster a deep connection between the subject and the viewer. This artwork addresses the critical issue of mental health, reflecting Maree’s personal experiences with depression. The emotional depth and tranquility of the portrait emphasize the importance of empathy and understanding, making it a poignant and impactful piece.
Kelly Maree, Josh Heuston, Synthetic polymer paint on linen, 125 x 145.5cm
The winner of the Archibald 2024, Laura Jones’s portrait of author and environmentalist Tim Winton, uses watery brushstrokes to create a dreamy yet direct depiction. The painting captures Winton’s contemplative nature and his deep commitment to environmental causes. This piece explores themes of environmental advocacy and introspection. The technique of blending the figure into the background reflects Winton's connection to nature. Jones’s varied paint textures and thoughtful portrayal create a powerful, evocative piece, deserving of its recognition.
Laura Jones, Tim Winton, Oil on linen, 198 x 152.5cm
Despite some of my reservations, a few works truly captivated me this year, notably Laura Jones’ award-winning portrait of Tim Winton. This piece, with its delicate brushstrokes and thoughtful composition, managed to convey the contemplative nature of its subject and his deep commitment to environmental causes. The portrait stood out not only for its technical excellence but also for its ability to evoke a profound emotional response, reminding viewers of the power of art to connect us to broader societal issues.
While there may be some concerns about the consistency of the entries' quality, these exceptional pieces remind us of the Archibald Prize's enduring potential for greatness. Each highlighted work serves as a beacon of what the prize can achieve when artists push boundaries and delve deeply into their subjects. For example, Caroline Zilinsky’s psychological portrayal of Jacob Elordi, with its rich symbolism and existential themes, showcases the profound impact of thoughtful and introspective artistry. Similarly, Julian Meagher’s intimate depiction of Craig Foster captures the essence of a figure who has significantly contributed to both sports and human rights, illustrating the artist's deep personal connection to his subject.
The Archibald Prize remains a fascinating sociological experiment as much as an artistic one, reflecting the current fads and preoccupations of contemporary Australian society. This dual role is part of what makes the prize so intriguing; it not only showcases artistic talent but also serves as a barometer for cultural trends and societal values. Whether this evolution is beneficial is up for debate. Some argue that the shifting parameters dilute the prize's original intent, while others believe that this adaptability is essential for keeping the prize relevant in a rapidly changing world.
Yet, the prize’s ability to provoke thought and inspire creativity continues to shine, even as it navigates the ever-changing landscape of modern art. The Archibald Prize challenges artists to explore new ideas and perspectives, often leading to groundbreaking work that resonates on multiple levels. This year’s highlights reaffirm the prize’s role as a vital platform for artistic expression and societal reflection. As the Archibald Prize continues to evolve, its capacity to spark dialogue and inspire both artists and audiences remains its most enduring legacy.
