This portrait of Alex Greenwich marked a pivotal moment in my practice, bringing my fabric-based style into the context of Australia’s most prestigious portrait prize. Alex, known for his leadership during the marriage equality campaign, carries both resilience and vulnerability qualities I sought to reveal through layered fabric forms hand-painted and sewn together.

The work captures more than likeness; it reflects the emotional toll of public life, particularly during moments of intense social scrutiny. Rather than presenting the polished optimism Alex is often associated with, I wanted to explore the quieter, more human aspects—the fatigue, the resilience, and the strength in showing up despite pain.

Each cut and sewn layer echoes the weight of expectation and the effort to hold it all together, while the fabric’s movement offers depth and softness, reminding us of the private person beneath the public figure.

This piece was selected as a finalist in the 2023 Archibald Prize and now lives permanently at Qtopia Museum, Sydney, where it forms part of the institution’s collection of works celebrating queer history, politics, and culture.