The Twins Visit (Carla and Lisa with apologies to Lucien (Lu), Reg, Euan and the Beloved Mr Peart)

Contemporary portraiture continues to evolve as a means of capturing not only physical likeness but also the deeper emotional and cultural dimensions of the sitter. Increasingly, artists are drawn to portraying individuals with whom they share a personal connection, using visual cues such as clothing, expression, and posture to reflect identity and intimacy. In this context, personal style becomes a vital narrative tool—clothes are not merely garments but symbols of personality, values, and affiliations. This approach is evident in the portrayal of a sitter with a strong connection to musician and artist Reg Mombassa, whose influence permeates both their aesthetic and cultural identity. The portrait draws inspiration from the works of New Zealand artist Ruth Angus, particularly her paintings Betty Curnow and Fay and Jane Birkinshaw, which are celebrated for their quiet intensity and nuanced portrayal of character.

This work contributes to contemporary portraiture by emphasising the emotional and cultural dimensions of personal connection between artist and sitter(s). Through the sitters’ distinctive clothing and stylistic references—particularly their connection to musician and artist Reg Mombassa—the portrait becomes a layered expression of identity, creative influence, and shared history. Drawing inspiration from Ruth Angus’s sensitively rendered portraits Betty Curnow and Fay and Jane Birkinshaw, the painting continues this tradition of capturing individuality through quiet, intimate observation.

The research is significant in its exploration of contemporary portraiture as a medium for conveying personal connection, cultural identity, and artistic influence. By depicting a sitter whose individuality is expressed through personal style and a shared creative lineage with musician Reg Mombassa, the work highlights how portraiture can reflect deeper relational and cultural narratives. In dialogue with Ruth Angus’s portraits Betty Curnow and Fay and Jane Birkinshaw, this painting contributes to a broader understanding of how clothing, posture, and artistic reference can communicate the complexities of identity and connection. The research enriches the field by demonstrating how portraiture can move beyond representation to become an intimate expression of memory, influence, and belonging.

• Selected as a finalist for inclusion in the Shirley Hannon National Portrait Prize, 2024