May 30th 2024.
A beautiful portrait of Indigenous rapper Baker Boy, painted by Victorian street artist Matt Adnate, has taken home the prestigious packing room prize at this year's Archibald prize. The prize, worth $3000, is chosen by the Art Gallery of NSW staff who carefully unpack and display all the entries for the Archibald.
Adnate shared that he first met Baker Boy, whose real name is Danzal Baker, over ten years ago and was immediately struck by his incredible talent as a dancer, performer, and artist. The two have previously collaborated on Baker Boy's Aria award-winning album Gela in 2021, with Adnate creating the album's cover art.
In a statement, Adnate expressed that his goal with the portrait was to capture the journey of his dear friend Baker Boy, from his beginnings as a young Indigenous performer from Arnhem Land to the music icon he is today. The artist also reflected on their long-standing connection, with him painting Baker Boy on numerous murals and canvases and the rapper performing at his events.
The 57 paintings in the running for this year's Archibald prize include Adnate's Rhythms of Heritage. Other notable finalists announced today include Shuan Gladwell for his symbolist portrait of activist Julian Assange and former People's Choice Award winner Angus McDonald for his portrait of Indigenous academic Professor Marcia Langton. Even the beloved Blue Wiggle, Anthony Field, makes an appearance in this year's line-up as a banana-gun-toting cowboy, captured by landscape and portrait artist Camellia Morris.
The Art Gallery of NSW received a record-breaking 2371 submissions for this year's Archibald, Wynne, and Sulman prizes, making it the highest number of entries in the history of the competition. The winner of the Archibald will be awarded $100,000 when the prize is announced next Friday at midday. The Wynne prize is worth $50,000, and the Sulman prize winner will receive $40,000.
For the full list of finalists, you can visit the Art Gallery of NSW website. And if you want to stay updated on all the latest breaking news, celebrity gossip, and sports updates, you can follow us on our WhatsApp channel. No comments, no algorithm, and your private details will remain private.
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