Tough Love !
I just received the announcement from the National Portrait Gallery that my submission was not successful this year. It’s a real disappointment, as I truly put my heart into creating this image. It was a complete team effort, made possible by the incredibly generous Precious Adams, First Artist at The Australian Ballet, who had just arrived in the country and offered her time on Australia Day to help me produce what I believe is a compelling photograph. Take a closer look at this image—the power she exudes and her graceful poise en pointe are inspiring. I am immensely grateful to my wife, Katie; to Chloe Rose for her skilful hair and makeup; and to the ever-reliable Nikolas Floroas for assisting on the day. While I wish for better luck next time, I remain proud to have created this defining image as a photographer, which is part of my ongoing ‘Living Artists’ series.
