National Portrait Gallery

Portrait One:
Deborah Mailman 1999
by Evert Ploeg (born 1963)
oil on jute
(see NPG website: http://www.portrait.gov.au/site/collection_info.php?searchtype=basic&searchstring=mailman&irn=123)

This portrait really stood out to me at the gallery because of it's simplicity. Most portraits are designed to be pleasing to both the viewer and especially the subject, they want to be flattered. However this picture shows the subject in the most basic way, in a plain white dress that looks simply made, barefoot, looking relaxed and comfortable while looking at the viewer, and against a simple background constructed of hessian sacks. I think this was done purposely to reflect aspects of the subjects character. Deborah Mailman came from humble origins but has made a name for herself as an award winning actress, starring in productions from Play School to Rabbit Proof Fence. Her simple surroundings in the image and her laid back, relaxed posture show she's comfortable with herself, and she's made no effort at posing or dressing up to look her best. The portrait carries a real feeling of honesty and a sense that what is portrayed is absolutely realistic.

Portrait Two:
Michael Klim 1999
by Jonathan Anderson & Edwin Low
(Born 1961 & 1957 respectively)
gelatin silver photograph

(see NPG website: http://www.portrait.gov.au/site/collection_info.php?searchtype=basic&searchstring=Michael%20Klim&irn=128)

This is one of my favourite portraits from the gallery, because it is so surreal. I had to look twice to see that, yes, he really is underwater. It also goes against a few of the "rules" of portraiture, such as the lane divider disappearing into his head. however, this picture is a great representation of the subject. Even though he is underwater, he looks perfectly comfortable and not like he's having trouble breathing etc. This shows a little about him, being a world famous swimmer, he is more than likely more comfortable in a pool than out. He also has a very strong and domineering posture, a stance that is the very image of the medal-winning athlete who has represented their country. The whole portrait conveys a strong sense of who he is, and it's a very appealing image.