HIDDEN FACES
The 2023 Victorian Salon des Refusés
This portrait was submitted to the Archibald and the Lester Prizes.
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Cat#38 Belinda Wilson
A PERFECT MOMENT WITH GERALDINE HICKEY Oil on Linen 105 w x 105 h cm $4,900 Artist’s Statement In my portrait of the Comedian, Geraldine Hickey, I wanted to depict her not only as a recognizable figure but a reflection of who she is when performing. I had the opportunity to connect with Geraldine through a mutual friend. I was working on a series of artworks that explored the theme of joy. What better subject than to paint a comedian who shares hilarious anecdotes and observation from everyday life. I saw Geraldine perform at the Sydney Opera House in 2022, during the finale she emerged in a wetsuit surrounded by balloons. This scene was one that I wanted to recreate in a painting, Geraldine grew up in Albury NSW, so I also wanted to give a nod to a regional setting which is why I painted Geraldine in a landscape. My work is a celebration of the human spirit. Through a visual connection, I strive to capture the essence of my subject to reveal who they are and capture a moment in time. Through observation and attention to detail I seek to capture her likeness whilst also portraying the depth and complexity of her character. |