The Portia Geach is the portrait exhibition and prize specifically for Australian women artists,  in memorial to artist and feminist Portia Geach ((1873-1959).  This year’s 57 portraits are exceptional.  There is variety in the styles, in the men and women painted, in the size (from a tiny 15 x 20 cm to a grand 198 x 168 cm) and in price ($750 to $26,000).

Sydney artist Sally Robinson was awarded the $30,000 prize with her self-portrait titled Body in a Box. In a joint statement the judges said of Robinson’s winning work, “We admired this bold and audacious portrait which demonstrates an understanding of tonal painting, composition and original technique. The confronting image of the figure contained within a box challenges our social perceptions around ageing.” The painting’s label reveals that Sally feels boxed in as she ages, living a more restricted life.

This is in stark contrast to Kylie Melinda Smith’s portrait of dancer Eileen Kramer.  Kramer, at age 104, is not remotely feeling boxed in. This dancer, designer, painter and writer  exudes humour, energy and enthusiasm for life. The artist says “Eileen’s creativity and knowledge of the arts … gives her courage, vivacity and generosity.”  

Another exquisite painting in the exhibition is Tianli Zu’s portrait of the Governor of NSW, the Hon. Margaret Beazley.

If you love portraiture, don’t miss this year’s Portia Geach.  It is an excellent exhibition.

The exhibition is on at the S.H. Ervin Gallery, Observatory Hill, until September 15