The National portrait gallary

1. Title: Gloves off
   Artist: Ralph Heimans
   Portrait subject: Tome Uren
   Date: 1996Type of portrait: Painting
   Medium: Oil on Canvas
   Image source: http://www.portrait.gov.au/site/collection_info.php?searchtype=basic&searchstring=gloves%20off&irn=155
   
   
   The portrait ‘Gloves off’ by Ralph Heimans communicates a large impression of Tom Uren’s character. The main factor that communicates Uren’s unique personality is the composition.
   
   The stance that Uren is captured in is intriguing and reveals many elements of his individuality. The way his arms are outstretched creates a large sense of movement, this communicates that Uren is always moving and looking to the future. The expressive stance gives signifies a man that is; free-spirited, committed, passionate and to the point. The background of the portrait reflects on Uren’s political career.
   The background is of the silhouette of a cityscape and a windswept sky. The cityscape may mean he works towards progress and change. The windswept sky enforces the free-spirited aspect of Uren’s personality, also appearing as a spotlight.
   
   This spotlight describes Uren as a strong, dominating character with loads of confidence.
   The contrasting objects depict separate sides to Uren’s personality. On the left there is a piece of paper of a lectern, symbolising; intelligence, democracy and power. In contrast to the right the boxing gloves symbolis Uren as; a fighter, courageous and forceful.
   The technique also reflects on Uren’s character. The realist style refers to Uren’s sense of reality and being a traditionalist. Heimans (the artist) used tone to highlight the most important elements of the portrait. By doing this he is also saying that Uren is focused. Inside the portrait there is nothing particularly Australian. However after reading the plaque I found that Uren was fought in World War two and was detained by the Japanese as a prisoner of war. Before moving on to be a politician for the labor party campaigning mainly for the environment, urban planning and veteran rights. I think as someone who was so involved in Australia’s history and issues the portrait does appeal to me as being particularly Australian.
   
   
   
   
2. Title: Missy Higgins
   Artist: Julian Kingma
   Portrait subject : Missy Higgins
   Date: 2004
   Type of portrait: Photograph
   Medium: Type C print.
   Image Source: http://www.portrait.gov.au/site/collection_info.php?searchtype=basic&searchstring=missy%20higgins&irn=1139
   
   
   This portrait of Missy Higgins by Julian Kingman, communicates a large amount about Higgin’s personality. This communication is again depicted mainly by the composition. Many of the messages contrast against each other showing many sides to Higgins.
   
   The Higgins is portrayed, sitting on a piano, slightly hunched over facing the viewer. way Higgins is hunched over and leaning on her writs says that she is reserved, slightly self-conscience and young.
   The clothing worn is modest and feminine; describing a character that is; traditional, classic, well grounded and wholesome. However the large collar covering Higgins neck also reveals her to be guarded.
   The bare feet symbolize a Higgins as being: free-spirited, humble and wild while reinforcing her youth and innocence.
   The manner in which her foot in placed on the piano pressing on the keys, communicate musical confidence and connection. Also how the shadow is cast upon Higgins’ back blending her and the piano tonally, reinforces her musical connection.
   
   Higgins is positioned on top of the piano. Sitting above the piano so comfortably conveys that Higgins has mastered the piano. The lighter tones focus on Higgins, and while she looks slightly reserved articulates that she is familiar with the spotlight and a comfortable performer.
   
   The technique used in the photograph enhances the composition. The black and white photograph symbolizes a sense of simplicity, being traditional and contrast.
   
   In this photograph there is nothing traditionally or partially Australian. Although Missy Higgins is a fantastic and honorable Australian musician I would not consider her music or career particularly Australian either.
   

© Faye Pinner