Her stepfather, George Stirling, was nearing the end of his life and Jacqui was painting the portraits of family and friends who were visiting over that difficult time. George passed away in June. 

The works were swiftly painted alla prima, mostly in one sitting from life or an iPhone image, and the resulting group of over twenty portraits is titled ‘Heads of the Family’.

In this episode Jacqui talks with me about the experience of painting those works which include a self-portrait and portrayals of George from life.

Jacqui’s work crosses many disciplines which defy description spanning from painting, sculpture, photography, collage and performance and her imagery includes portrayals of Ned Kelly, lots of masks, naked figures and horses heads.

She has painted the portrait throughout her career and in 2018 was one of only twenty artists to be  commissioned by the National Portrait Gallery to mark its 20th year. 

Jacqui is represented by Olsen Gallery in Sydney.

Current and upcoming shows, as well as images of paintings we talk about in this episode, are listed below.

Above portrait photo of Jacqui Stockdale by Ilona Nelson (cropped)

Current and upcoming exhibitions

Links

Rick Stirling, George’s brother

George Stirling

Jacqui Stockdale, Self Portrait

Drawings of George Stirling

Jacqui Stockdale’s mother, Maree Stockdale

George Stirling’s sister

Trish Stirling

‘An artist practising’ – self portrait