Rinehart Portrait Controversy
Mining magnate Gina Rinehart has requested the National Gallery of Australia to take down her portrait from an exhibition by artist Vincent Namatjira. The portrait, which some may consider demeaning, is among many artworks put up at the Canberra gallery in Namatjira’s first major exhibition.
National Gallery’s Response
The National Gallery has refused to remove the portrait, stating that it encourages public discourse regarding its collection and exhibitions. The gallery emphasized the importance of presenting works of art to inspire people to explore, experience, and learn about art.
Background of the Portrait
The portrait of Rinehart is displayed alongside portraits of Queen Elizabeth II and footballer Adam Goodes and is scheduled to remain on exhibit until July 21. Before being showcased in Canberra, the painting was publicly displayed in Adelaide for several months during its initial exhibition at the Art Gallery of South Australia.
Rinehart’s Controversial Actions
In 2023, Gina Rinehart withdrew a $15 million sponsorship from Netball Australia after Indigenous netballer Donnell Wallam requested that her uniform not bear the Hancock Prospecting logo. Rinehart later established a $3 million fund to reward athletes who achieved gold medals or set world records in various sports.
Namatjira’s Artistic Journey
Vincent Namatjira made history in 2020 as the first Aboriginal artist to win the Archibald Prize with his portrait of Goodes, using satirical humour to challenge societal power dynamics. In his recent works, Namatjira aims to subvert authority and privilege, drawing from his personal journey of disconnection and discovery of his artistic heritage.
