An edited video version of this conversation will be on the YouTube channel soon!

It’s one of the most thrilling days on the Australian art calendar—and this year, Julie Fragar has taken out the Archibald Prize with a captivating portrait of fellow artist and colleague Justene Williams.

Her large scale portrait of Justene, appearing to float in space and surrounded by model figures and structures drawn from Justene’s creative universe, commands the viewer’s attention.  Julie talks with me about the portrait and its elements, her approach to colour and her tips for a productive sitting. This episode also includes Julie’s moving acceptance speech.

Also announced today:

Jude Rae, winner of the Wynne Prize (and two-time podcast guest)

Gene A’Hern, winner of the Sulman Prize (video interview coming soon!)

Scroll down for images of the winning works

Julie FragarFlagship Mother Multiverse (Justene)
oil on canvas
240 x 180.4 cm

Jude Rae
Pre-dawn sky over Port Botany container terminal
oil on linen
200 x 150.4 cm

Gene A’Hern
Sky painting
oil and oil stick on board
240 x 240 cm