Portrait SZN: One
Dylan Bolger
- Sitter: Dylan Bolger
- Medium: Acrylic (Paint Pens) on canvas
- Dimensions: 91cm x 122cm
- Representation: This artist represents themselves
About the artwork
In this self-portrait, Meanjin (Brisbane) artist Dylan Bolger reflects on his evolving identity more than a decade after creating his first self-portrait at age 21. Both subject and storyteller, he explores themes of cultural memory and identity in this work.
This image is based on a photo taken just before he completed Pretty Little Fears, his largest mural commission which celebrates Blak excellence and resilience, created for ESR Australia’s “Creative Communities” initiative.
Rather than aiming for realism, Bolger embraces expressive colour and bold contrast to challenge traditional portraiture in this work. These visual choices evoke emotional intensity and shift the focus from likeness to inner truth. In doing so, Bolger unsettles fixed ideas of identity, instead asserting cultural agency and self-determination. The small Aboriginal flag on his sleeve becomes a subtle yet powerful emblem of identity and solidarity. More than a representation, the portrait is a declaration of presence, pride and possibility.
About the artist
Dylan Bolger is a First Nations multidisciplinary artist based in Meanjin (Brisbane). His bold, culturally rich practice reflects a deep connection to place, identity and storytelling. Bolger won the People’s Choice Prize in the Churchie Emerging Art Prize in 2023 and has completed residencies with Aboriginal Art Co and Museum of Brisbane. He has a background in architecture and has contributed to major public artworks across the city.
