Art is subjective, and while many artists yearn to share their work, there’s no guarantee it will be understood or liked by the audience. This is evident with a painting by indigenous artist Vincent Namatjira, which includes a portrait of Australia’s richest person, mining magnate Gina Rinehart.
Rinehart has reportedly called for the National Gallery of Australia (NGA) to remove her portrait from Namatjira’s exhibition “Australia in Colour,” which has been on display in Canberra since March. The piece features 21 portraits, including those of Queen Elizabeth II, Jimi Hendrix, Aboriginal rights activist Vincent Lingiari, and former Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison.
The NGA, in a statement to CNN, welcomed the public dialogue on its collection and displays, referencing the dynamic discussions on the artistic merits of works since 1973. The gallery emphasized that its purpose is to inspire exploration and learning about art.
Namatjira, in his statement, explained that he paints influential figures, whether they are wealthy, powerful, or significant to the country and himself. He hopes his paintings provoke thought and discussion about why he chose to depict these powerful individuals.
Rinehart, who is the executive chairman of Hancock Prospecting, a mining company founded by her father, Lang Hancock, has an estimated net worth of $30.2 billion USD, according to Forbes.
The National Association for the Visual Arts (NAVA) has voiced its support for Namatjira, stating that while Rinehart has the right to express her opinions, she does not have the authority to pressure the gallery to withdraw the painting. NAVA expressed concern that Rinehart’s demand sets a dangerous precedent for censorship and the stifling of creative expression.
