Sydney-based painter Laura Jones has been announced as winner of the $100,000 Archibald Prize. She is one of the 12th woman to win the prize in its 103-year run since its inception. It is about time, we say. To echo Katy Hessel: 'The story of art is a fraction of a fraction of a fraction of the women who contributed to art. I look...and I see so many gaps'. Selected from 1005 entries, Jones' portrait of author Tim Winton has landed her as the coveted recipient of the Archibald.
The painting featured a still-life rendition of writer Tim Winton deep in thought. The subject pictured stands somberly in a grey-tee shirt against a background of green-grey. There is great detailing on his face, brought to life in fleshy pink tones. Jones, who is an expert at naturalist depictions, takes to this portrait with her usual hand in still life and portraiture. Her characteristic calligraphic strokes are evident from every end. Winton is a portrait of great concern. Jones' depiction had surpassed other entrants who delivered portraits on subjects such as Julian Assange and Saltburn actor Jacob Elordi.
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The announcement of the winner was delivered this afternoon. The decision was made at the Art Gallery of New South Wales (AGNSW) by David Gonski, outgoing president of the AGNSW's Board of Trustees. Judged by a panel including fellow artists Tony Albert and Caroline Rothwell, the Archibald Prize is one of Australia's longest-running art prizes. It is typically awarded to a painted artwork created in the past year, which is painted from life.
Jones' win was announced alongside the winners of the Sulman and Wynne prizes, going to Elder Naomi Katjuriny from Tjala Arts and Djakaŋu Yunupiŋu respectively.
Where can I see the painting?
The Archibald, Wynne and Sulman Prizes 2024 exhibition runs June 8–September 8 at the Art Gallery of New South Wales.
Feature image: Left: Winner Archibald Prize 2024, Laura Jones ‘Tim Winton’ oil on linen © the artist
