Matt Adnate Wins Archibald Packing Room Prize for Baker Boy Portrait in Record-Breaking Year of Entries

Melbourne street artist Matt Adnate has been awarded the prestigious Archibald Packing Room Prize for his remarkable portrait of Yolngu rapper Baker Boy, marking a record-breaking year with over 1,000 entries received for the Archibald Prize.

This is Adnate’s second time as a finalist in the renowned Archibald Prize, having previously showcased a portrait of Silverchair‘s frontman, Daniel Johns. The announcement was made at the Art Gallery of New South Wales (AGNSW) by gallery director Carolyn Christov-Bakargiev.

Adnate’s captivating portrait of Baker Boy, known for his exceptional blend of music and dance, captures the essence of the Yolngu artist’s journey from his roots in Arnhem Land to international stardom. The artwork, titled Rhythms of Heritage, integrates elements of spray paint and synthetic polymer paint, reflecting Adnate’s signature street art style.

The 57 finalists unveiled for this year’s Archibald Prize include notable personalities such as Hollywood stars, Julian Assange, Tim Winton, and the beloved members of The Wiggles. Additionally, three cast members from the acclaimed Netflix series, Heartbreak High, have also been immortalized in artworks.

Alongside Adnate, other artists like Mia Boe, Robert Fielding, Thea Anama Perkins, and Adrian Jangala Robertson bring a diverse range of perspectives and talent to this year’s exhibition, highlighting Indigenous voices and storytelling.

In a groundbreaking turn, there are more Indigenous artists represented than ever before, with 30 painters contributing to the vibrant tapestry of the Archibald. The Wynne and Sulman prize categories also feature familiar names like Natasha Bieniek, Zaachariaha Fielding, and Noel McKenna in contention for the prestigious awards.