Brayden Hsu, Portrait of a Farmer (JUNIOR 2023)

I don't believe that portraits require a face. "Portrait of a Farmer" is an unconventional yet powerful narrative, extending far beyond the faceless. Centred in a rural Australian context, a line-up of weathered Akubra hats exudes the family's resilient spirit, their worn wall reflecting generations of grit and perseverance. The ever-present hand sanitiser, a silent testament to post-pandemic anxieties, subtly highlights the global reach of the crisis, underscoring the farmer's shared human experience. Amid the earthy palette, a pink tiger keychain pops in stark contrast, possibly symbolising a hidden desire for an escape from the harsh reality, a yearning for something more vibrant, even playful. This image isn't just a testament to a farmer's strength, but also a raw, humanising glimpse into their hopes and fears. Through its unique representation, it compels us to look beyond the obvious and delve deeper into understanding each other's stories.

Images have been resized for web display, which may cause some loss of image quality. Note: Original high-resolution images are used for judging.