HIDDEN FACES
The 2025 Victorian Salon des Refusés
This portrait was submitted to The Lester Portrait Prize.
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Cat#1 Adoni Astrinakis
SOLACE Oils & 25K Gold on Ca nvas 122 cm w x 152 h cm $15,000 Artist’s Statement In my portrait of Saroo Brierley, the profound narrative of his life’s story, depicted in his book 'LION: A Long Way Home', serves as inspiration. Saroo's is a tale that transcends borders and resonates with universal themes of human connection and the pursuit of home. Capturing Saroo in a moment of quiet reflection, his eyes closed and the weight of his head resting on his half-clenched hand, "Solace" delves into the deep reservoirs of the human spirit. The brushwork seeks to capture not just his likeness, but to establish an emotional resonance. His face, subtly illuminated in shadow speaks to the layers of Saroo's narrative—the darkness that shaped him and the light that guided him home. The choice of black and white underscores the nature of Saroo's journey—not just across physical landscapes but also through the intricate contours of memory, identity, and resilience. His expression represents both introspection and the solitude that accompanies self-discovery, hopelessness, tenacity, and ultimately triumph. Saroo is adorned with a 24 karat golden mane which honours his namesake, and celebrates his victorious hero’s journey. The title, "Solace," evokes the internal sanctuary and strength that Saroo found within himself, amidst the complexities of his life's odyssey. His contemplation invites viewers to share in the silent conversations and discoveries that unfold within the recesses of his mind. In a world increasingly filled with noise "Solace" offers the chance to reflect on the fortitude found in moments of stillness, and the peaceful unrest that follows great upheaval. |