Portraits of a Nation: The Archibald Prize 2025 Captivates Sydney

Archibald Prize 2025 winner, Julie Fragar

Flagship Mother Multiverse (Justene)

A Time-Honoured Tradition Returns

Each year, the Archibald Prize captures the spirit of Australia through the faces that define it. In 2025, the prestigious portraiture exhibition returns to the Art Gallery of New South Wales, running until 17 August. For over a century, this prize has celebrated talent, diversity, and the evolving landscape of contemporary Australian identity. The 2025 iteration promises to be no different—bold, thought-provoking, and deeply human.

Where Art Meets Identity

More than just portraits, the Archibald entries offer an intimate lens into the stories of their subjects. Whether they are public figures, community icons or anonymous muses, the paintings invite viewers to connect, reflect, and reconsider. This year's selection explores themes of resilience, cultural pride, and the personal dimensions of fame and influence.

The finalists include both emerging and established artists, many pushing the boundaries of traditional portraiture with daring use of colour, texture and symbolism. Visitors will encounter everything from hyperrealist oils to abstract interpretations, all bound by the common thread of human connection.

A Sydney Staple for All Ages

The Art Gallery of NSW, perched on the edge of The Domain overlooking Sydney Harbour, offers the ideal backdrop for the exhibition. The newly expanded gallery space provides a fluid experience for visitors to engage with the artworks at their own pace. Families, students, art lovers and casual visitors alike will find something to admire and contemplate.

Guided tours and interactive sessions provide further insight into the stories behind the portraits and the artists who created them. A dedicated kids’ trail and art-making activities ensure younger audiences can connect with the exhibition in a hands-on, age-appropriate way.

Plan Your Visit

Entry to the Archibald Prize 2025 exhibition is ticketed, with timed sessions recommended during peak periods. The Art Gallery of NSW is easily accessible by public transport, and offers cafés, bookshops, and public spaces to make a day of your visit.

The exhibition runs daily until 17 August 2025.

For more information and to book tickets, visit: www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au

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