We acknowledge the Gadigal of the Eora Nation, the traditional custodians of the Country on which the Art Gallery of NSW stands.

Finalist: 16-18 year olds

Elaine Zhang A spirited soul

Age 16

16-18 year olds

I have chosen to paint my neighbour Bojka, as she and her husband are kind people who are always open to lending a hand. They have helped us with gardening, and always gift us with fruits from their garden without expecting anything in return. Her eyes captured me the most, as they are always full of spirit and light, despite the hard toils of life. This is why I used green in the background to bring out her eyes, as well as to represent growth, endurance and peace.