In 2019 I painted a portrait of Scott Hutchinson for the Brisbane Portrait Prize. That same year happened to be Scott’s 60th birthday and Don O’Rorke, one of Scott’s good friends, decided to buy the piece for Scott to celebrate his milestone.
In 2021, as Don now turns 60, I found myself back at the easel painting Don’s portrait! We met on a number of occasions in his beautiful home in Brookfield trying to find the right context for his sitting. As a lover of art and most comfortable in the home he has created for his family, the decision became obvious to include both his art and his home in the piece.
Each time I meet with Don I feel the sense of calm he emanates, balanced by a mischievous twinkle, and in particular wanted to capture this in the work.
Below are some photos of the recent unveiling of the painting and I am relieved to say that Don and Katie, his partner, along with a few other family members were pleased with the finished work. It’s always daunting and emotional for me to reveal the finished work as I invest so much of myself in my work.
Don has also very kindly given me permission to enter his portrait in the upcoming Brisbane Portrait Prize 2021!
‘Don’
73 x 102.5cm
Oil on Canvas
