The Percivals 2026

About the Artwork

To me, figurative paintings are reflections of not only external representation but also give a sense of character and energy. My work often includes symbols and narrative elements to assist and enhance the visual experience and reading of my work.

I paint and draw from life and my work is often informed by the natural world. This self-portrait shows me in my painting shirt as an easel peeps through, referencing my work as an artist.

The nest in the foreground speaks to my love of the environment. The pink scarf gives a splash of colour which I find uplifting and joyous.

I enjoy using brushstrokes with gusto and play to push and pull the sense of space for some visual intrigue.

About the Artist

Christine Wrest-Smith has worked as a fulltime artist for almost 30 years, predominantly in portraiture and figurative works. She has an Honours Degree in Fine Art from Monash University in Melbourne, but has also studied art in Spain and Italy, as well as completed study tours of Berlin, London, and Scotland.

She has held 22 solo exhibitions and has been a selected finalist in many of Australia’s leading portrait prizes, among them the Percival Portrait Painting Prize, the Lester Prize, Portia Geach, Len Fox, Salon des Refusés, Naked and Nude, Calleen, Rick Amor Prize, and the Doug Moran Prize. Her work is held in collections nationally and internationally.

Christine is represented by Australian Galleries Melbourne and Sydney.