Australia's most prestigious art competition, the Archibald Prize 2025, has arrived at Geelong Gallery for its exclusive Victorian exhibition following its inaugural display at the Art Gallery of New South Wales. The celebrated portraiture award, which serves as a cultural time capsule capturing famous faces, local heroes, and contemporary Australian society, will showcase all 57 finalist artworks through Sunday, November 9.
The exhibition features the 2025 winner of the $100,000 prize: "Flagship Mother Multiverse (Justene)" by Julie Fragar, which depicts Brisbane artist Justene Williams. The diverse collection of portraits captures notable Australians including Australian of the Year recipients Neale Daniher and Grace Tame, comedian Aaron Chen, renowned artist Ken Done, and beloved landscape architect Costa Georgiadis. These works collectively represent the best in contemporary Australian portraiture while documenting the nation's current cultural moment.
Eight Victorian artists have earned recognition among this year's finalists, including ceramicist and multidisciplinary artist Vipoo Srivilasa. Gallery visitors can experience an additional treat as Srivilasa's solo exhibition "re/JOY" runs concurrently with the Archibald Prize display until November 2, offering a comprehensive showcase of contemporary Australian artistic talent.
The Geelong stop holds special significance as the first regional destination on the 2025 Archibald Prize tour and represents a homecoming of sorts, as the city is the birthplace of the award's founder, J.F. Archibald. Geelong Gallery has enhanced the exhibition experience by launching special after-hours events on Friday nights and hosting a series of "Creative Conversations" featuring Archibald Prize artists, portrait subjects, and expert moderators.
Visitors are encouraged to extend their cultural experience beyond the gallery walls, with Geelong offering numerous dining, entertainment, and exploration opportunities. The gallery has prepared a comprehensive Visitor Guide Brochure to help guests plan a full day or weekend around their Archibald Prize visit. Complete ticketing information and detailed exhibition schedules are available on the Geelong Gallery website.
