DARLING PORTRAIT PRIZE FINALIST 🎨: Self portrait in lockdown, 2021 by Paul Newton ARTIST STATEMENT I painted this self portrait over the many months of COVID lockdown in Sydney. My pensive, subdued expression in the picture reflected my mood during this difficult time of isolation and disconnection from friends and family. I find that painting self portraits, particularly during such dark times, can be a cathartic experience. 😷 To commemorate Canberra’s longest LOCKDOWN-IVERSARY, we’re showcasing artworks from the National Photographic Portrait Prize and Darling Portrait Prize that exemplify our stuck-at-home woes. 💙 Love this portrait? Make sure you check out all the Darling Portrait Prize finalists and vote for your favourite in the People's Choice Award on our website (link in bio). #PortraitAU @paulnewtonartist