the importance of being (Geoffrey Rush)

the importance of being (Geoffrey Rush) comprises a stop-motion animation and two portraits of the Oscar winning actor, Geoffrey Rush, transforming from himself into the role of Lady Bracknell for the Melbourne Theatre Company’s production of ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’

1024 individually painted portraits in oils over 572 hours
70 studio days
Seven ‘residue’ paintings, oil on board, 40 x 70cm each.

1 February - 20 June 2012, South Melbourne
The Moran Portrait Prize, Australia, 2012, finalist

the importance of being (Geoffrey Rush). Oil on board, 45cm x 70cm — *the importance of being (Geoffrey Rush).* Oil on board, 45cm x 70cm each

This work is a portrait of transition and transformation revealing Geoffrey Rush in the act of becoming the character, Lady Bracknall, in the Melbourne Theatre Company’s production of The Importance of Being Earnest. The portrait and accompanying diptych represent tangible evidence of the ephemeral work of both actor and artist.

the importance of being (Geoffrey Rush). Doug Moran National Portrait Prize 2012 installation. (photo: Simon Leong) — *the importance of being* (Geoffrey Rush). Doug Moran National Portrait Prize 2012 installation. (photo: Simon Leong)