The University of Queensland National Self-Portrait Prize 2015
The original selfies.
Overview
We've all done it at some point: drawn or painted a picture of ourselves. You were probably made to in high school, and before that you definitely committed your likeness to paper in primary school. Think of them as the original selfies.
Every two years, the University of Queensland invites a selection of artists to craft a new self-portrait — and every two years, one of them wins $50,000 for their troubles. In 2015, that honour went to Fiona McMonagle. She painted a single portrait at 7pm every day over 100 days, then turned it into a 16-second animation.
Her piece is currently on display at the National Self-Portrait Prize 2015 exhibition, alongside the introspective offerings of her fellow contenders. Perusing their efforts, you'll be fascinated by the way these creative folks see themselves — and you'll likely be inspired to make your own attempt.
