Clean conversations with Nic Marchesi
Peter Jacobsen
- Sitter: Nic Marchesi
- Medium: Oil on Canvas
- Dimensions: 100 x 140 cm
- Representation: The artist represents themselves
About the artwork
If Orange Sky Laundry’s driver is to provide a supportive environment without fear of judgement, then the orange chairs are the vehicles that enable this to happen. Conversations surround the subject whose form is shared from shifted perspectives to highlight his energy, enthusiasm, and sense of humour.
About the sitter
Nic Marchesi is co-founder of the immensely successful charity Orange Sky Laundry, an organisation helping to positively connect people experiencing homelessness through free laundry, showers and conversation. In 2016 he and Lucas Patchett were awarded joint Young Australians of the Year for their social entrepreneurship.
About the artist
Peter Jacobsen has spent his life pursuing a variety of creative fields. After graduating from the Queensland College of Art, he enjoyed a long career as an Advertising Art Director before turning his hand to architecture and urban design. More recent creative endeavours have seen him produce large-scale organic installations and sculptures.
“When I learnt about the Portrait Prize, I knew Orange Sky and all the great work this charity does for the Brisbane community, needed representing.”
Behind the scenes
I first heard about Nic, Lucas and Orange Sky laundry on the News. Their inspirational concept captured my imagination.
When I learnt about the Portrait Prize, I knew Orange Sky and all the great work this charity does for the Brisbane community, needed representing. It was only through conversations with Nic did I realise they offer much more than a laundry/shower service.
They provide a much-needed platform for the often over-looked to connect. An environment free from fear of judgement and discrimination. The aim of ‘Clean conversations’ is to keep this all-important conversation going! And hopefully, through the power of art, evoke a positive response or even better a positive action from the audience.
