The University of Queensland National Self-Portrait Prize 2017

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 2017, that honour went to Jenny Orchard, with her sculpture piece Self Portrait as a Multispecies Activist, but she's not the only one getting introspective and creative.

At the National Self-Portrait Prize 2017 exhibition, an array of artistic self-assessments are on display, spanning everything from ceramics to paintings to lighting to mirrors. 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.

Image: Julie Fragar, The Single Bed. 2017, oil on marine ply. 135.0 x 100.0 cm. Courtesy of the artist and Sarah Cottier Gallery, Melbourne.