We asked our GALLERY ONE artists, Christopher McVinish and Cynthia Breusch about being 2024 Brisbane Portrait Prize finalists.
“Painting portraits can be a difficult and time consuming project, but ultimately very rewarding.
Not only are you trying to paint a likeness of the sitter and his or her personality, but there is also the engagement between the artist and the person being painted. Having the sitter actually like the portrait is the ultimate compliment.
I think entering a Prize and being accepted as a finalist is justification for all the work you have put in as an artist. It is also interesting to see your portrait hanging with all the other finalists and throws a light on where you are with your practice.”
Cynthia Breusch with her Brisbane Portrait Prize Finalist painting.
Night Studio No.2
- Sitter: Cynthia Breusch
- Medium: Acrylic on Board
- Dimensions: 62cm x 123cm
About the artwork
This work is a variation on a theme she has been working with for many years. Similar works were exhibited in the Portia Geach Memorial Award, and also a survey show at Lethbridge Gallery in 2020.
“It depicts me in the studio late one night as I caught my reflection in the glass door. The overhead lighting exaggerated the shadows and highlights, dramatising a moment of self-doubt; the studio became theatre.” The size and dramatic tonal contrasts further exaggerate these stark elements.
Breusch says it reminds her of the remark John Cage made to US artist, Phillip Guston: “When you start working everyone is in your studio – the past, your friends, your enemies, the art world, and above all your ideas – all are there. But as you continue painting they start leaving one by one, you are left completely alone. Then, if you are lucky, even you leave.”
This portrait was also exhibited in the Darling Portrait Prize.
About the artist
View more of Cynthia’s available artworks here.
Christopher McVinish with his Brisbane Portrait Prize Finalist painting.
The philanthropist – portrait of Tim Fairfax AC
- Sitter: Tim Fairfax AC
- Medium: Oil on Linen
- Dimensions: 122cm x 153cm
About the artwork
The portrait strikes a balance between the formal and casual, revealing his status and experience as a leader but also capturing his calm personality.
Since 2008, the Tim Fairfax Family Foundation has been supporting rural, regional and remote communities in areas including community health, the arts and education.
Tim Fairfax has also had leadership roles in many public institutions. He was Chancellor of QUT, founding benefactor and former Chair of the National Portrait Gallery, and former deputy chairman of the National Gallery of Australia.
Together with his wife, Gina and family, Tim Fairfax is continuing the family’s generational commitment to giving. Like his father, Vincent, Tim Fairfax is known for his gracious and humble approach.
Tim and Gina Fairfax are major benefactors to many public institutions, and also art collectors. They have some of Christopher’s work, as the artist discovered when he visited Tim Fairfax for the sitting. “I was surprised, he had quite a few of my and Cynthia’s work.”
Tim Fairfax is also president of the QAQOMA Foundation, Chairman of the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal, and has received many awards for leadership in philanthropy.
About the artist
Christopher McVinish is a contemporary realist painter with a successful portraiture practice. He also paints urban landscapes. “I’m interested in taking everyday things and transforming them, finding the aesthetic in what usually gets taken for granted.” He has held over 30 solo exhibitions since 1979 and been been a finalist in many awards. His art is represented in public and private collections in Australia and around the world. He trained at Swinbourne College, taught at the Queensland College of Art, had a graphic design business in Brisbane with his artist wife Cynthia Breusch. They both now work from their home studio in the Blue Mountains. Christopher’s work has been represented by Jan Murphy and Lethbridge Galleries. He is now represented by Sydney’s M Contemporary, and Gallery One, Gold Coast, where he is described as “…a master of light.”
View more of Christopher’s available artworks here.
Here are some other points to keep in mind when looking for that perfect painting and following an artists career.
Entering art awards and prizes offers several benefits for artists. Here are some reasons we have gathered together to explore why participating can be valuable:
- Visibility and Profile: Winning or being a finalist in a prestigious art prize can significantly boost an artist’s profile. It puts their work. In the spotlight, attracting attention from curators, collectors and galleries. Exposure gained through art prizes can lead to other exhibition opportunities and sales.
- Networking and Contacts: Art competitions provide a chance to connect with influential people in the art world. Artists can meet fellow creatives, judges, and industry professionals, expanding their network and potentially opening doors for future collaborations or projects.
- Feedback and Validation: Even if an artist doesn’t win, participating in a competition allows them to receive feedback from experts. Constructive criticism helps artists grow and refine their practice. Additionally, being selected as a finalist validates their work, talent and cements the value of the work they are creating.
- Career Development: Art prizes serve as milestones in an artist’s career. Winning or being shortlisted can be a stepping stone to further success, exhibitions, and opportunities. It demonstrates commitment and dedication to their practice and wan too continue excelling, which is a good sign for investors and collectors.
- Financial Rewards: Some art prizes offer substantial monetary rewards. While not the primary motivation for most artists, winning a cash prize can provide financial stability and allow them to invest back into their practice.
It is however important to recognise that entering art prizes can also be expensive, considering time, transport and insurance costs. Ultimately, the decision to participate depends on an artist’s goals, resources, and artistic journey.