Images above: Jenny Rodgerson Tangled – Self Portrait oil on linen 62 x 72 cm; and Michelle Hiscock Sister of the Brush No.1 (Stephanie Monteith, artist) oil on canvas 50 x 40 cm.
Congratulations to Michelle Hiscock and Jenny Rodgerson who have been selected as finalists in the 2022 Portia Geach Memorial Award. Michelle has presented a beautiful portrait of fellow painter Stephanie Monteith, while Jenny offers a dynamic and highly engaging self portrait.
First awarded in 1965, the Portia Geach Memorial Award was established by Florence Kate Geach in memory of her sister, artist Portia Geach. As per the direction of the will, the Award is annually presented to an Australian female artist for the best portrait painted from life of a man or woman distinguished in art, letters or the sciences. Geach was widely acclaimed as a leading artist and was a frequent commentator in the national media – making her an iconic figure in the Australian arts community. The $30,000 non-acquisitive Portia Geach Memorial Award is given by Perpetual as trustee, to the entry with the highest artistic merit.
Michelle Hiscock Sister of the Brush No.1 (Stephanie Monteith, artist) 2022 oil on canvas 59 x 40 cm.
“It seems natural to feel a kinship with fellow women painters, especially those who share the commitment to balance their creative work with motherhood and other caring roles. The challenges promote empathy rather than rivalry and we feel encouraged by each other’s success. This is the first of a series of portraits celebrating these sisters of the brush.” – Michelle Hiscock, artist statement.
Jenny Rodgerson Tangled – Self Portrait oil on linen 72 x 62 cm.
The winner will be announced on Thursday 15 September 2022.
Portia Geach Memorial Award
S.H. Ervin Gallery
2 Watson Rd, Millers Point NSW 2000
16 September – 6 November 2022