Portraits of Costa Georgiadis and Sue Chrysanthou among 2025 Archibald Prize finalists

·

Two prominent Greek Australians — television presenter Costa Georgiadis and barrister Sue Chrysanthou SC — have been immortalised among the finalists for this year’s Archibald Prize, Australia’s most prestigious portraiture award.

Georgiadis, the exuberant host of ABC’s Gardening Australia, features in The Green Man by Sydney-based artist Evan Shipard. The work, which marks Shipard’s first time as an Archibald finalist, offers a more contemplative portrait of Georgiadis than viewers may be used to seeing on screen.

“Costa is a warm, inquisitive individual, who is passionate about his causes and very interested in the painting process,” Shipard said.

“He is an animated character on screen, but I aimed to capture a quieter, more pensive moment that hopefully offers a fresh insight into this popular man.”

The portrait was created during a live sitting at the Bowral & District Art Society in the Southern Highlands. Shipard later added a personal touch in his studio, surrounding Georgiadis with figs and a floral arrangement — a nod to his Greek heritage and his flamboyant appearance at the recent Logies.

sue chrysanthou archibald prize 2025 finalist
‘Portrait of Sue Chrysanthou’ by Peter Wegner. Oil on panel. 59 x 48.9 cm.

Chrysanthou, a Sydney-based defamation barrister renowned for her tenacity in the courtroom, is the subject of Portrait of Sue Chrysanthou by Peter Wegner, who won the Archibald in 2021.

Wegner was struck by Chrysanthou’s commanding presence during a livestreamed court case and was moved to paint her.

“I was impressed by her energy and the complex ritual of her questioning,” he said.

Far from a typical glamour portrait, Wegner embraced Chrysanthou’s rejection of social conventions.

“I also warmed to the fact that she doesn’t wear make-up, never combs her hair, never wears jewellery (except for a bracelet given to her by her four children) and is not on social media. In a world dominated by social expectations, I found these qualities refreshing,” he said.

“The painting reflects a professional moment, but I hope that Sue’s sideways glance takes the portrait beyond a senior counsel. In that time capsule, there is also a parent, pet owner, beekeeper, wildlife carer and alleged amateur breakdancer, with a huge enthusiasm for life.”

Both portraits are among the 57 finalists selected from more than 900 entries in this year’s Archibald Prize, which opens at the Art Gallery of New South Wales on May 10.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Sewn with love: Leah Plakias’ 14-month-long journey towards dress of her dreams

Come New Year, resolutions run awry. Some we keep, others take a back seat. For Leah, 2024 saw her tackle one of her biggest to date.

Pallaconian Association of Canberra marks 25 years with ‘Taste of Laconia’ celebration

The Pallaconian Association of Canberra & Districts celebrated their 25th Anniversary by hosting ‘Taste of Laconia’.

Cypriot Community of Apostle Andrew in Melbourne celebrates 70th anniversary

Over 400 people gathered on Saturday evening, to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the founding of the Cypriot Community of Apostle Andrew.

Greek communities in QLD and NT mark 84th anniversary of the Battle of Crete

The 84th anniversary of the Battle of Crete was solemnly commemorated over the weekend by the Cretan communities in Queensland and the NT.

Alex Hawke returns to Coalition frontbench with Industry and Innovation portfolio

Greek Australian MP Alex Hawke has returned to the Coalition frontbench as part of a major shadow cabinet reshuffle unveiled by Sussan Ley.

You May Also Like

‘Most successful multicultural nation’: Scott Morrison’s Australia Day message

In his Australia Day message, PM Scott Morrison has reminded Australians that "we can and will get through these difficult times."

Young Australians of Greek heritage among the best real estate agents in NSW

The past year’s biggest property deal-makers of NSW aged under 35 have been revealed and 6 Greek Australians are included in the list.

Giannis Antetokounmpo joined by his brothers on Greece’s EuroBasket team

The four Antetokounmpo brothers have been confirmed to play for Greece's national team in the EuroBasket 2022.