National Portrait Gallery pairs John Brack and Noel McKenna in mirror-themed exhibition
The National Portrait Gallery in Canberra has launched 'John Brack × Noel McKenna: A face in the mirror', a significant exhibition co-curated by Isobel Parker Philip and Dr Emma Kindred. This showcase features over ninety pieces from the two Australian artists, who never had the chance to meet. McKenna once sought Brack's participation for a portrait in the Archibald Prize but was turned down. Brack (1920–99) is increasingly acknowledged as the foremost Australian non-Indigenous figurative painter of his era, recognized for his thoughtful and intentional exploration of human behavior. In contrast, McKenna (1956–) offers whimsical, anecdotal works. Highlights include Brack's 'Self-portrait' (1955) alongside McKenna's 'Cat at mirror' (2015). The exhibition is open from 3 April to 19 July 2026.
Key facts
- Exhibition 'John Brack × Noel McKenna: A face in the mirror' at National Portrait Gallery, Canberra
- Co-curated by Dr Emma Kindred and Isobel Parker Philip
- Over ninety works on display
- John Brack (1920–99) and Noel McKenna (1956–) never met
- McKenna once proposed painting Brack's portrait for the Archibald Prize but was refused
- Brack is considered the most significant Australian non-Indigenous figurative painter of his time
- Brack's 'Self-portrait' (1955) shows him shaving from an unnaturally low viewpoint
- McKenna's 'Cat at mirror' (2015) was appropriated from the internet
- Other pairings: 'Two typists' (1955) and 'Dr Joseph Brown with Two Typists' (1996)
- Major works include 'The hands and faces' (1987) and 'Latin American Grand Final' (1969)
- Exhibition dates: 3 April to 19 July 2026
Entities
Artists
- John Brack
- Noel McKenna
- Sasha Grishin
- Isobel Parker Philip
- Joseph Brown
Institutions
- National Portrait Gallery
- National Gallery of Victoria
- Art Almanac
- Archibald Prize
- ArtsHub
Locations
- Canberra
- Australian Capital Territory
- Australia