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An Indigenous Artist Has Won The Archibald Prize For The First Time In History

An Indigenous Artist Has Won The Archibald Prize For The First Time In History

"It only took 99 years."

Stewart Perrie

Stewart Perrie

Vincent Namatjira has won the 2020 Archibald Prize for his portrait of AFL legend Adam Goodes.

It's the first time in the art competition's history that an Indigenous artist has won.

The painting is titled 'Stand Strong for Who You Are' and it features former Swans player Goodes and Namatjira clasping hands.

Art Gallery of New South Wales

Sadly, Vincent couldn't be there in person to accept the coveted prize, however, he appeared via video-link to express what the award means to him.

"This is a really special moment for me," he said. "What an honour it is to be the first Indigenous winner of the Archibald prize.

"It only took 99 years.

"I'm so proud to be the first but I also have to acknowledge all the Indigenous finalists and Indigenous sitters for this year and past years."

Adam Goodes also recorded a video message to mark the historic moment an Indigenous person won the Archibald.

"I am thrilled that an Indigenous artist, Vincent Namatjira, has won the Archibald prize for the first time and I'm so pleased that it shines the light on all Indigenous art," Goodes said.

"We have a 60,000 year history of art and culture in our people and we share this knowledge and gift of culture with all Australia.

"Vincent and I are also countrymen. I'm so proud of Vincent and his family, their journey has been shared through art of generations."

Featured Image Credit: Art Gallery of NSW

Topics: News, Australia