2026 NEXT GEN FINALIST
My Light
Genevieve Brady
- Sitter: Vincent Finn
- Medium: Prismacolour pencil on cartridge paper
- Dimensions: 23 cm x 28 cm
- Artist Age: 16
- Artist School: All Hallows' School
2026 Next Gen Prize
Proudly supported by
Queensland College of Art and Design, Griffith University
About the work
My Grandad, Vincent Finn, has always been one of the most influential people in my life. Although he lives in Ireland, he spends time with our family in Brisbane each summer, and I wanted to capture one of the moments that feels most like him: smiling as he looks out a bus window, enjoying the warmth of the Australian sun.
His compassion, generosity and playful sense of humour have shaped the person I am becoming. Whether through his kindness, his tireless work ethic or one of his light-hearted pranks, he brings warmth to everyone around him.
This portrait is my way of celebrating someone whose influence reaches far beyond the time we spend together. Even with the distance between us, my Grandad remains a constant source of encouragement and joy. He reminds me that the people who leave the greatest impression on our lives are often those who simply love us, support us and bring light wherever they go.
Judges Notes
Genevieve Brady’s portrait of her grandfather, My Light, is a gentle and sincere portrait in which her love and affection really shines through. I was immediately struck by the artist’s incredible proficiency with her chosen media and the very clear, economical communication of the image. The work’s small size easily and tenderly conveys character and a big heart.
Jonathan McBurnie
Director, Queen Victoria Museum and Gallery (Launceston)
Chief Judge 2026
