Betina Fauvel-Ogden won the Packing Room Prize at the 2016 Archibald Prize with a painting of chef George Calombaris.

This year, her subject is Gabrielle Wang, an award-winning author and illustrator of books for children and young adults. Born in Melbourne of Chinese heritage, Wang blends stories from Chinese and Western culture, with a touch of fantasy.

Early in her career, Fauvel-Ogden also illustrated children’s books, so she felt an instant rapport with her sitter.

‘When I met Gabrielle, I was taken with what I can only describe as a golden presence. I saw her in the guise of an empress, hence the golden yellow background,’ says Fauvel-Ogden, who, like Wang, is based in Melbourne.

‘I chose her costume for its colourful design, which I thought would suit the painting, as I have a love of fabrics and textiles.

‘The Australian magpie she is holding is the unique, handcrafted trophy presented to Gabrielle when she was named Australian Children’s Laureate for 2022 and 2023. The magpie symbolises Gabrielle’s pride in her career.’