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

Jessica Thompson Chrysalis

Age 16

16-18 year olds

I chose to paint my sister Eva as she experiences her teenage years. This image of her portrays the conflicting emotions that accompany this stage of life. Happy switches to irritable within what seems like seconds. She is a whirlwind of emotion, yet the essence of her, which is fun and light, is still present. I love her regardless, as she moves towards emerging from the chrysalis of self-conscious adolescence.