Tony. The listener

Andrew Linklater, Tony. The listener, 2026
Image courtesy of the artist.

Andrew Linklater

Tony. The listener 2026

Portrait of Tony Taylor
Oil on canvas
150 x 100 cm

About the Artwork

I have long been fascinated by Tony’s rare ability to really listen. People are drawn to him; most times, they are not seeking advice, just an understanding ear. I regard this as a special gift that not many people possess. This portrait aims to capture his empathy and approachable nature.

The close-up detail image is included to demonstrate my desire to provide sufficient information/detail for the viewer to complete the image themselves without creating a painting that tries to replicate a photographic image.

About the Artist

Queensland-based artist Andrew Linklater took up painting in acrylics upon his retirement. Initially, he went to a number of local artists gatherings but quickly felt he needed to progress to the next level. One artist suggested it was time to take the next step and attend one of the ‘summer workshops’ in the USA, in which well-known teachers held ‘refresher classes’ for previous students, but would take outsiders, space permitting. Andrew was lucky enough to find a teacher who had been principal of the New York School of Art. As Andrew relays: “Over a number of summer workshops, he had me producing credible portraits alongside some of his chosen students. I’ve never looked back.”